Pope Francis has revised the funeral rites to be observed upon his passing, opting for a simpler ceremony that calls attention to his role as a bishop rather than a figure of worldly power.
In a statement released by the Vatican, the updated liturgical guidelines, approved by the Pope on April 29, were published in the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano on Wednesday November 20, 2024.
“Pope Francis as he approaches his 88th birthday this December has continued to engage actively with the public, recently presiding over a lively general audience where children enthusiastically rushed to the stage. Despite some health challenges, he remains committed to his mission,” the statement read in part.
In an interview with a Mexican broadcaster Pope Francis disclosed his intention to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in Rome, rather than in the traditional grottoes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica where most popes are interred.
“This choice is deeply personal; it reflects his devotion to the Salus Populi Romani, an iconic depiction of the Virgin Mary housed in the basilica,” the statement added.
The necessity for this revision arose following the death of Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI on December 31, 2022. His passing marked the first time in 600 years that a retired pope had died, prompting the Vatican to navigate uncharted waters regarding papal funerals.
The statement further highlighted that in light of this, Pope Francis collaborated with Monsignor Diego Ravelli, the Vatican’s master of liturgical ceremonies, to simplify the existing funeral rites.
Monsignor Ravelli elaborated on the reforms, noting that the new rites eliminate the requirement for the pope to be displayed on an elevated bench in St. Peter’s Basilica. Instead, he will be laid to rest in a simple coffin, and the customary three coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak will no longer be necessary.
“This simplification emphasizes that the Roman Pontiff’s funeral is that of a shepherd and disciple of Christ, not of a powerful man of this world,” Ravelli stated.
Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis has consistently eschewed the ostentation typically associated with the papacy, choosing to live in the Vatican hotel rather than the Apostolic Palace and traveling in modest vehicles. His desire for a simple burial at Santa Maria Maggiore aligns with his vision of a church that serves the poor and embodies humility.
“It’s my great devotion,” Francis shared, expressing his connection to the basilica and the revered icon. “The place is already prepared.”
As the Vatican prepares for the eventual passing of Pope Francis, these changes to funeral rites reflect not only his personal wishes but also his enduring commitment to a more accessible and humble approach to the papacy.
