In a move emblematic of his papacy, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, will not be interred beneath St. Peter’s Basilica alongside his predecessors. Instead, he will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome—a decision reflecting his enduring commitment to humility and his deep personal devotion to the Virgin Mary
This choice marks a significant departure from tradition. Since the early 20th century, it has been customary for popes to be buried within the Vatican. The last pontiff to opt for a different resting place was Pope Leo XIII in 1903, who was interred at the Basilica of St. John Lateran
Pope Francis’s decision is rooted in his profound connection to the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Throughout his papacy, he visited this basilica over a hundred times to pray before the revered icon of the Virgin Mary, known as “Salus Populi Romani.” Notably, his first act as pope was to pray before this icon, underscoring its significance in his spiritual life
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In line with his desire for simplicity, Pope Francis also revised the traditional papal funeral rites. He chose to eliminate the use of three nested coffins, opting instead for a single wooden casket lined with zinc. Furthermore, his body will not be displayed on an elevated platform, as was customary, but will remain modestly presented to the faithful
These decisions are consistent with the values Pope Francis upheld throughout his tenure: humility, accessibility, and a focus on spiritual depth over ceremonial grandeur. By choosing a final resting place outside the Vatican, he reinforces his lifelong message that the essence of faith lies not in opulence but in genuine devotion and service.
Pope Francis’s funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the parvis of St. Peter’s Basilica, with numerous international dignitaries expected to attend
In death, as in life, Pope Francis continues to inspire by exemplifying the virtues he preached, leaving a legacy that challenges the Church to embrace humility and compassion at its core.
Last Updated on April 23, 2025 by Samuel Kwame Boadu
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Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
