In the wake of Pope Francis’s passing, the Vatican prepares ancient rituals, a simplified funeral, and a unique resting place. These events mark a historic shift from traditional papal customs.
Time-honored rituals after the death of Pope Francis
After the death of Pope Francis, the Vatican immediately follows established traditions. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the current Chamberlain, will officially confirm the Pope’s death. He will do this by calling the Pope’s name three times at his bedside.
Then, officials will remove and destroy the Fisherman’s Ring, a symbolic act. They will also seal the Pope’s private apartment. These steps mark the official end of the papacy.
Lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica
Pope Francis’s body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica for three days. During this time, thousands of mourners are expected to visit and pay their respects.
Unlike past popes, Francis will not lie on a raised platform (catafalque). Instead, his body will remain inside his coffin, with the lid removed during viewing.
The Vatican plans to move his body to the basilica as early as Wednesday morning, according to spokesperson Matteo Bruni.
A simpler funeral reflecting the Pope’s wishes
Before his death, Pope Francis requested a simpler funeral. He wanted to move away from the elaborate customs of his predecessors.
The funeral will likely take place within six days, though the exact date has not yet been set. Updated rites from last year reflect his vision.
According to the new guidelines, the Pope’s body will be placed inside the coffin before entering St. Peter’s Basilica. This changes the older tradition of verifying his death inside a chapel.
Pope Francis’s final resting place
Pope Francis will not be buried inside the Vatican. Instead, he chose the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.
This church holds deep personal meaning for him. During his papacy, he visited it over 100 times to pray before and after international trips.
Historically, seven popes have been buried there between the 13th and 17th centuries. Francis will become the first pope in more than 100 years to be buried outside the Vatican.
A departure from traditional burial customs
Francis also requested changes to how his body will be buried. He will rest in a single zinc-lined wooden casket, instead of the traditional three.
Previous popes, such as Benedict XVI, were buried in three coffins. This system helped preserve the body and allowed the Church to place symbolic items inside.
Francis will skip these customs. His casket will not include papal documents, coins, or other relics. His decision reflects his lifelong message of humility and simplicity.
The legacy of Pope Francis
The death of Pope Francis marks the end of an era defined by compassion and reform.
His final wishes emphasize humility over ceremony. From his simplified funeral to his chosen resting place, Francis remains consistent with his message.
His legacy will continue to shape the Church — not only through his teachings, but through the quiet power of his final decisions.
Vatican released photos of Pope Francis in his open coffin
The Vatican Secretary of State is seen praying over him at Domus Santa Marta.
In the images, the pope wears red liturgical vestments, a papal mitre on his head, and a rosary in hand, while the Vatican Secretary of State prays over him at Domus Santa Marta
The rite confirming his death and body placement took place last night.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, read the official death declaration during a ceremony lasting under an hour.
Seals were also placed on the papal apartments in both the Apostolic Palace and Santa Marta.
Pope Francis’ body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing
The public can pay respects starting Wednesday morning at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
Images released show Francis dressed in red vestments, holding rosary beads, inside a wooden coffin.
People from around the world are expected to gather for this historic papal farewell.
The dean of the College of Cardinals will celebrate the funeral mass.
Additionally, Cardinals held a special meeting Monday to finalize arrangements for Pope Francis’ funeral ceremonies.
The Mass will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals.
A procession will follow the funeral, concluding the service within the sacred square of St. Peter’s.