In pictures: Rome Mass for Pope

1 of 8 Tens of thousands of people converged on St Peter's Square to attend a Requiem Mass for Pope John Paul II.

2 of 8 Pilgrims had spent the night lighting candles to remember the Pope.

3 of 8 Cardinals offered prayers in memory of the man who led the Church for 26 years.

4 of 8 The Pope had asked believers not to cry for him - even though many are still distraught.

5 of 8 Pope John Paul II was able to reach out to people from around the world.

6 of 8 He was especially keen to engage young people - and a day before dying reportedly thanked them for praying for him.

7 of 8 After the Mass, officials were able to file past the Pope's body lying in state at the Apostolic Palace.

8 of 8 On Sunday, all thoughts were on the Holy Father - though cardinals will soon have to choose a successor.