When the Cardinals walked to the very front of the altar, taking their positions nearest the seat of honor like stone pillars guarding a throne.
The faithful in the square fell to their knees, murmuring prayers, their faces full of piety and excitement.
The honored guests in the viewing area did not kneel, but they all rose to their feet to show their respect.
When all the Clergy had finished lining up on both sides of the altar, the choir's singing reached a crescendo and then came to an abrupt halt.
An absolute silence fell over the square.
All eyes were fixed upon the wide-open gates, which seemed to lead to the Divine Kingdom.
Finally, a figure slowly appeared in the doorway, at the threshold between light and shadow.
It was Elizabeth.
She wore an unprecedentedly magnificent and solemn Saint's Robe.
The robe was a pure, flawless moon-white, crafted from the finest Eastern Cloud Pattern Silk. It was as smooth as water, and it flowed like light.
