Pope Francis’ final burial request has shocked many by departing from centuries-old papal traditions. Known for his simplicity and humility, the 88-year-old pope passed away on April 21, 2025, after battling health issues, including pneumonia and kidney failure. What followed was a funeral plan that reflected his values and approach to life.
A Simpler Farewell for Pope Francis
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, had already experienced health struggles throughout his papacy. Even as the church speculated about his declining health, Pope Francis remained focused on his service to the church and humanity. His death on April 21, confirmed by the Vatican at 7:35 AM, came just one day after he appeared in St. Peter’s Square for Easter Sunday. However, it was his final burial request that truly stood out.
In a break from tradition, Pope Francis requested a simple and humble burial, which reflected his commitment to a life of modesty. Unlike previous popes, who were buried in elaborate three-coffin arrangements—cypress wood, lead, and elm—Francis chose a single wooden coffin lined with zinc.
Breaking with Tradition: Burial at Santa Maria Maggiore
Pope Francis’ burial is set to take place at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, instead of the traditional St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, where most popes are laid to rest. This decision underscores his desire to remain grounded and his disavowal of pomp and grandeur.
As for the coffin inscription, it was to be as modest as the rest of the arrangements. Pope Francis instructed that only his name, “Franciscus,” should be engraved, rejecting any elaborate decorations. This humble request continues the legacy of simplicity and service that he promoted throughout his life.
Pope Francis. Credit / Getty Images
Pope Francis’ Legacy of Humility and Service
Known for his progressive approach to the papacy, Pope Francis was not just a religious leader but an advocate for the marginalized and underprivileged. He was vocal on issues like immigration, poverty, and environmental conservation, leaving a powerful mark on the church’s role in global affairs. Despite his position, he maintained a lifestyle that shunned the opulence often associated with the papacy.
In his final years, Pope Francis wrote that he could sense the “approaching twilight of my earthly life” and made arrangements for his death with the same humility that defined his papacy. His final wishes, including the simplicity of his burial, illustrate his commitment to living out the values he championed throughout his leadership.
Pope Francis’ Final Days and Death
The Vatican had previously shared that Pope Francis had been battling respiratory illnesses and pneumonia, which had caused significant concern. However, his cause of death was later confirmed as a massive cerebral stroke, not related to the respiratory conditions he had been treated for.
Reports confirmed that Pope Francis died peacefully at home on Vatican grounds, surrounded by the quiet of the sacred space. His final moments were marked by his steadfast devotion to his faith and service, as he continued to work until the very end of his life.
Pope’s Last Words and His Legacy
In a poignant note written in 2022, Pope Francis described his approaching death as a “new beginning,” reaffirming his belief in eternal life. As he prepared for his final days, he reflected on his legacy and his journey as the Bishop of Rome, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the church and its people.
Pope Francis’ passing has left a profound impact on the world. His simple burial and final requests are a testament to his dedication to humility and service. His life was marked by compassion for the poor, advocacy for the environment, and a relentless focus on human dignity.
A Final Tribute: The Fisherman’s Ring and Papal Seal
In keeping with papal tradition, Pope Francis’ Fisherman’s Ring will be destroyed following his death. This ceremonial destruction serves to mark the end of his papacy and ensure the ring is not misused after his passing. This process, conducted by the Camerlengo (the Cardinal in charge of the Vatican), is part of a centuries-old tradition to signify the conclusion of a pope’s reign.
The Fisherman’s Ring, a symbol of papal authority, will be destroyed in the presence of the College of Cardinals, before the process to elect a new pope begins.
Funeral and Final Resting Place
Pope Francis’ funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, in St. Peter’s Square at 10 AM local time. The funeral will be a simple and solemn ceremony, consistent with the values the pope lived by throughout his life. After the public ceremony, his body will be transferred to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore for burial.
The Simple and Powerful Legacy of Pope Francis
Pope Francis’ final burial request, his life of humility, and his unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes will leave an indelible mark on both the Catholic Church and the world. As the world mourns the loss of this remarkable figure, his legacy will continue to inspire millions, with his calls for kindness, compassion, and global justice remaining central to his papacy.
For more details on Pope Francis’ life, legacy, and final moments, feel free to explore these articles:
- Pope Francis’ Heartbreaking Final Gesture to His Nurse Before Death
- Pope Francis Describes Death as a New Beginning Before His Passing
These articles provide deeper insights into Pope Francis’ final moments and his profound impact on the world.
