Pope Francis, known for his humility and anti-authoritarian stance, has made significant changes to the traditional papal funeral rites, opting for a simpler and more modest approach.
In a revised funeral liturgy announced by the Vatican on Wednesday, the Pope has chosen to forgo the usual practice of using three coffins for papal funerals. Traditionally, the body of a pope is placed in a cypress coffin, which is then encased in a zinc coffin and finally sealed in an oak casket. However, Pope Francis selected a modest wooden coffin lined with zinc. Additionally, the procedure for confirming his death will take place in his private chapel rather than in the room where he passes away, further reflecting his preference for simplicity.
In line with his wishes for a simpler legacy, Pope Francis has also amended the regulations regarding his burial. While previous popes have traditionally been interred near St. Peter’s tomb in St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis has expressed his desire to be buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s four major basilicas. This church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is the first church in the city to honor the mother of Jesus.