Archbishop Bishop Tutu lies in state

Archbishop Tutu, a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, who played a signal role in putting an end to the institutionalised system of racial segregation in South Africa, better known as Apartheid, passed away on Sunday at the age of 90. 

Many people will be given a chance to grieve at his side, during the lying-in-state period, as his official state funeral will be held on January 1.

Until that time, mourners will be grateful just to simply file past his body and say their goodbyes but not farewells since many hope to meet the great man in the Hereafter.

The milling crowds are slowly swelling to throngs as many more mourners arrive and many more are expected to visit the cathedral over the next two days.

Archbishop Tutu, so beloved in life, is towering in death to the extent that the lying-in state period had to be extended by two days, "for fear there might be a stampede" if his body is withdrawn before mourners can say their final goodbyes.

Resting in a simple wooden coffin with priests burning incense as the archbishop’s prone body was carried into the cathedral, a deep feeling of loss engulfed the building and reminded everyone that greatness was in their midst.

It is said that Archbishop Tutu's wish was that there be "no ostentatiousness or lavish spending" on his funeral.

It is reported that he even "asked that the coffin be the cheapest available.

Although he chose poverty over wealth and opulence, he was loved also by the rich.

Billionaire Richard Branson described Archbishop Tutu as “one of the most positive, funny, life-affirming people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.”