As Pope Francis’ funeral approaches, the Vatican has revealed the special items that will be buried alongside the late pontiff.
Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, will be buried with several meaningful items.
His funeral is scheduled for April 26, and many people are expected to attend. This article will detail what will be included in his burial.
Pope Francis’ body lies in state at the Vatican
Since his death, Pope Francis’ body has been lying in state at the Vatican. Thousands of mourners have visited to pay their respects.
The public viewing will end just before the funeral. It is anticipated that around 200,000 people will attend the funeral, including many foreign leaders.
Pope Francis had specific wishes for his burial. He expressed a desire for a simple ceremony, which reflects his humble nature.
He chose to have a zinc coffin placed inside a wooden casket. This choice aligns with his wishes for a more straightforward and less elaborate funeral than traditional ceremonies.
The pope will be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, a church in Rome. This location holds special significance for him.
In his final testament, he mentioned that he often prayed there during his apostolic journeys.
He wanted his final journey to conclude in this ancient sanctuary, as it symbolizes his faith and devotion.
Items to be buried with Pope Francis revealed as part of the burial ceremony
Before the coffin is sealed, several items will be placed inside.
One of the items is a small bag of coins that were minted during his 12 years as pope. This gesture signifies his time in office and the contributions he made.
Additionally, a metal tube containing important documents and a biography of his papacy will be included.
This biography provides insight into his life and work as the leader of the Catholic Church. The master of liturgical ceremonies will read this one-page account aloud before it is placed in the coffin.
Throughout his life, Pope Francis emphasized humility and simplicity. His burial wishes reflect these values.
He stated that the tomb should be simple, without elaborate decorations. His only request for an inscription is his name, “Franciscus.”
In his final testament, he expressed gratitude for those who supported him and prayed for him.
He also offered his suffering for peace in the world and for brotherhood among people. These statements highlight his commitment to compassion and care for others.
Attendance of world leaders at Pope Francis’ funeral
On the night before the funeral, the pope’s body will receive a final blessing. Holy water will be sprinkled on the body, and a white silk cloth will be placed over his face.
This ritual is a traditional part of the Catholic faith and is meant to honor the deceased.
The funeral will see many prominent figures in attendance. Leaders from around the world have expressed their condolences and will join the ceremony to honor Pope Francis.
This includes figures such as Prince William, Donald Trump, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Their presence reflects the global impact of the pope’s leadership.
