Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, left behind a legacy marked by humility and a commitment to reform. His funeral rites, meticulously planned by himself, reflect these values and signify a departure from centuries-old papal traditions.Reuters+2People.com+2Architectural Digest+2U.S. News+6eCatholic Teachings+6The Jerusalem Post+6
A Simplified Farewell
In 2024, Pope Francis approved a revised edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, the liturgical book governing papal funerals. This new version simplifies the rites to emphasize the pope’s role as a pastor rather than a worldly leader. Notably, he chose to eliminate the traditional use of three coffins—cypress, lead, and oak—in favor of a single, zinc-lined wooden casket. Additionally, he requested that his body not be placed on an elevated bier during public viewing in St. Peter’s Basilica, opting instead for a more modest presentation. Catholic News+7Wikipedia+7The Jerusalem Post+7Catholic News+5AP News+5eCatholic Teachings+5AP News+10eCatholic Teachings+10Wikipedia+10Wikipedia+3Standard Media+3U.S. News+3
A Personal Burial Site
Breaking with the longstanding tradition of burying popes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis expressed his desire to be interred at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. This basilica holds special significance for him due to his deep devotion to the icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, housed there. His choice marks the first time since Pope Leo XIII in 1903 that a pope will be buried outside the Vatican. Architectural Digest+8eCatholic Teachings+8AP News+8AP News+6Standard Media+6AP News+6eCatholic Teachings+3Wikipedia+3The Jerusalem Post+3
Funeral Proceedings
The funeral proceedings commenced with the rite of ascertainment of death, conducted by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the papal chapel. Pope Francis’s body lies in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. The funeral Mass is scheduled to take place in St. Peter’s Square between April 25 and 27, followed by his burial at St. Mary Major. A nine-day mourning period, known as the novemdiales, has been initiated, during which the Church reflects on his life and prepares for the conclave to elect his successor. RNS+2Wikipedia+2Reuters+2People.com+1Architectural Digest+1Architectural Digest+2AP News+2People.com+2
A Legacy of Humility
Pope Francis’s decisions regarding his funeral rites are consistent with his papacy, which emphasized simplicity, pastoral care, and a focus on the marginalized. From residing in the modest Domus Santa Marta instead of the Apostolic Palace to traveling in simple vehicles, he consistently modeled a life of humility. His final wishes serve as a testament to his commitment to these principles, leaving a lasting impact on the Church and its future direction
