Pope Francis, known for his humility and departure from traditional papal extravagance, has made significant decisions regarding his funeral rites and burial preferences. In a December 2023 interview with Mexico’s N+ television, he disclosed plans to simplify the elaborate funeral rituals traditionally accorded to popes and expressed his wish to be buried outside the Vatican, specifically in Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major.
Simplification of Papal Funeral Rites
Historically, papal funerals have been elaborate ceremonies, reflecting the pontiff’s supreme position within the Catholic Church. Pope Francis, however, has approved revisions to these rites, aiming to emphasize his role as a servant leader rather than a monarch. These changes include:
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Body Placement: Traditionally, the deceased pope’s body lies on a decorated platform (catafalque) in St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing. Under the new rites, the body will be placed inside an open coffin until the night before the funeral.
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Coffin Specifications: Previous protocols involved encasing the pope’s body in three coffins—cypress wood, lead, and oak. Pope Francis has opted for a single, simple wooden casket, aligning with his commitment to modesty.
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Verification of Death: The ritual confirmation of the pope’s death, traditionally conducted in the papal bedroom, will now occur in his private chapel, where he will be placed inside the coffin.
These modifications reflect Pope Francis’s desire to present the papacy as a role of service and humility, moving away from monarchical perceptions.
Burial Outside the Vatican
Departing from a century-old tradition of papal burials within the Vatican, Pope Francis has chosen the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome as his final resting place. He cited his profound devotion to this Marian basilica, noting his regular visits there before and during his papacy. The basilica houses the revered icon “Salus Populi Romani” (“health of the Roman people”), before which Pope Francis often prays, especially before and after international trips.
This decision makes him the first pope in over a hundred years to be buried outside the Vatican, underscoring his commitment to humility and his personal spiritual journey.
Health Considerations and Resignation Speculations
As of late 2024, Pope Francis, then 88, faced health challenges, including a complex respiratory infection. Despite his condition, he remained active, attending Mass and engaging in his duties. These health issues sparked discussions about the possibility of resignation, especially given his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation in 2013. Pope Francis has acknowledged the possibility of stepping down if his health severely impedes his ability to serve, though he emphasizes that such a decision should not become customary.
Implications for the Catholic Church
Pope Francis’s choices regarding his funeral and burial signify a shift towards a more humble and service-oriented perception of the papacy. By simplifying the funeral rites and selecting a burial site outside the Vatican, he challenges longstanding traditions, potentially setting a precedent for future pontiffs. These decisions reflect his broader efforts to align the Church more closely with the principles of humility, service, and accessibility.
In summary, Pope Francis’s approach to his funeral and burial arrangements embodies his commitment to modesty and service. These choices not only reflect his personal spirituality but also signal a transformative moment in the Catholic Church’s portrayal of its leadership and traditions.
