By Jessica Murdock
Breaking with Tradition
Pope Francis has chosen to simplify his funeral arrangements, discarding many of the elaborate customs traditionally associated with papal funerals. Announced by the Vatican, this decision highlights the pope’s long-standing commitment to humility and modernization within the Church.
Wooden Coffin Over Traditional Casket
In a significant departure from custom, Pope Francis will be interred in a single, zinc-lined wooden coffin rather than the customary three-layer caskets made of cypress, lead, and oak. This choice reflects his ongoing efforts to embody simplicity and authenticity, as reported by Reuters.
No Public Viewing
Unlike previous popes, Pope Francis will not have his body displayed for public viewing atop a catafalque in St. Peter’s Basilica. Instead, visitors can pay their respects with the casket lid removed, marking a stark contrast to the traditional display.
Burial at St. Mary Major
The pope has opted to be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, breaking a century-old tradition of papal burials occurring within Vatican walls. This basilica holds personal significance for Francis, as it is a place of prayer before and after his international travels.
Revised Funeral Rites
The Vatican’s Office for the Liturgical Celebrations has released an updated formal rite for papal funerals, approved by Pope Francis. Archbishop Diego Ravelli noted that these changes reflect the pope’s desire for a more meaningful expression of the Church’s faith in Christ, emphasizing that the funeral should represent a pastor, not a worldly power.
Ongoing Health Challenges
Despite facing health challenges, including chronic knee and back pain, Pope Francis has remained active. Approaching his 88th birthday, he has engaged in demanding foreign trips and leadership summits, demonstrating his commitment to his papacy.
Commitment to Simplicity
Pope Francis’s desire to simplify funeral rites aligns with his broader vision of a more accessible and humble Church. By moving away from ostentation, he seeks to create a legacy that prioritizes faith and community over tradition.
