Pope Francis’ funeral featured two major breaks from tradition, with changes in ceremony and ritual that reflect his unique papacy.
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, at the age of 88. He served as the leader of the Catholic Church for over a decade.
Before his death, he made specific requests regarding his funeral that break with long-standing traditions at the Vatican.
These changes reflect his desire for simplicity and humility.
Pope Francis aimed to simplify funeral rites.
Before his passing, Pope Francis updated the “Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis,” which means the “Funeral Rites of the Roman Pontiff.”
His goal was to simplify the procedures involved when a pope dies.
Traditionally, the funeral rites are elaborate and steeped in centuries of practice. However, Pope Francis aimed to streamline these processes to make them more accessible.
One of the traditional practices is that the pope is laid in state for several days. During this time, the public can pay their respects.
After the pope’s death, his papal ring is typically destroyed. While these elements remain, Pope Francis has made significant changes in other areas.
Two major traditions Pope Francis broke for his funeral ceremony
A simple wooden coffin
One major change is related to the coffin in which he will be buried.
Pope Francis requested to be placed in a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc. This request marks a departure from the traditional practice of using three coffins.
In the past, popes were often entombed in an elaborate arrangement of coffins made from different materials.
Traditionally, one coffin is made of cypress wood, which symbolizes humility and mortality.
Another is made of lead to preserve the remains and prevent tampering. The final coffin is typically made of oak, representing dignity and strength.
Pope Francis’ choice for a simple wooden coffin highlights his commitment to humility and simplicity.
The burial site decision
Another significant change involves the burial site for Pope Francis.
Traditionally, popes are buried in the grotto of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. This has been the standard practice for centuries.
However, Pope Francis amended the funeral rites to allow for a burial outside the Vatican if desired.
In his updated wishes, he expressed a desire to be buried in a simple underground tomb at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome.
This decision is historic, as Pope Francis will be the first pope in over a century not to be buried at St. Peter’s Basilica.
The last pope to be buried outside the Vatican was Pope Leo XIII, who passed away in 1903.
Pope Francis expressed clear wishes for his burial.
Pope Francis’ will outlines his wishes clearly.
He stated, “I have always entrusted my life and priestly and episcopal ministry to the Mother of Our Lord, Mary Most Holy. Therefore, I ask that my mortal remains rest, awaiting the day of resurrection, in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.”
His words reflect a deep spiritual connection to the Virgin Mary and his faith.
He requested a simple tomb without ornamentation, only bearing the inscription: “Franciscus.”
This simplicity aligns with his overall approach during his papacy. Pope Francis has always emphasized humility and a focus on serving others.
