A Personal and Historic Decision
Pope Francis, aware of his declining health, long expressed his desire to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. This fifth-century Roman church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, held deep personal significance for him. He visited it after each of his more than 100 foreign trips, praying and meditating before the Marian image. His request marks a break from modern tradition; no pope has been buried there since Pope Clement IX in the 17th century.
Simplified Ritual Reflects Francis’ Vision
Following recent shifts in papal funeral customs, Francis’ rites will emphasize humility. Unlike past grand ceremonies, the deceased pontiff will lie in a simple white cassock and red vestments. His body will rest in a plain, open wooden coffin during the three-day public viewing at St. Peter’s Basilica. The traditional catafalque platform, last used for Pope Benedict XVI, will not appear.
A Departure From Longstanding Burial Norms
Pope Francis rejected the ornate three-coffin tradition. Instead, a single oak coffin will likely contain a document about his pontificate and a symbolic bag of coins. A white cloth will cover his face before the funeral Mass, scheduled for St. Peter’s. Due to winter weather, the service may be held inside the basilica. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the 91-year-old dean of the College of Cardinals, would typically deliver the homily, but his ability to do so remains uncertain.
Final Resting Place at a Cherished Church
In a rare move, Francis will be transported across Rome to Santa Maria Maggiore for burial. While most popes since 1903 have been interred at St. Peter’s, this gesture honors Francis’ devotion to the Virgin Mary. After a private rite of prayers and holy water, his coffin will be placed inside the church, later opened to the public for veneration.
Supporters and Detractors Weigh In
Supporters praise the pope’s humility and Marian devotion, calling his burial plans “deeply symbolic.” Critics, however, worry the break from tradition may confuse or unsettle the faithful. Still, most agree the plans reflect the pope’s life mission and pastoral identity.
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What will happen at the funeral of Pope Francis
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