As his health deteriorates, concerns grow over the Pope’s ability to continue leading the Church. However, instead of resting alongside his predecessors in the Vatican, the Pope has chosen a final resting place that reflects his lifelong devotion and humility.Pope Francis has spent his papacy redefining what it means to be the leader of the Catholic Church, embracing humility and prioritizing the needs of the people. Now, he is making history once again with his decision to forgo burial in the Vatican.At the same time, the Pope’s declining health has raised serious concerns, and, according to reports, as the Vatican navigates this uncertain period, preparations for his eventual passing are quietly taking shape.Pope Francis Breaks Tradition with His Funeral Plans
Pope Francis made it clear that when his time comes, he does not want to be buried in the Vatican like many of his predecessors.
Instead, he expressed his wish to be laid to rest in Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, a place deeply tied to his personal devotion.In a December 12, 2023, interview with Mexican news outlet N+, the Pope, in good spirits, openly discussed his funeral plans. He revealed that he had already spoken with Archbishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli, his master of liturgical ceremonies, about the arrangements.”We simplified them quite a bit,” he said before jokingly adding, “I will premiere the new ritual.”
This decision marked a significant departure from tradition.Historically, popes have been buried in the Vatican Grottoes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. The last pontiff to break this custom was Pope Leo XIII, who died in 1903 and was interred at the Basilica of St. John Lateran.As for St. Mary Major, six popes have been buried there, but the most recent was Pope Clement IX in 1669. Pope Francis’ reasoning for his choice was deeply personal.”It’s my great devotion,” he said, explaining that before becoming pope, he would visit the basilica on Sunday mornings whenever he traveled to Rome.The site houses the revered Byzantine-style icon known as Salus Populi Romani (Salvation of the People of Rome), which depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus.The Pope has long expressed a special connection to this image, often praying before it after returning from his papal trips. His preference for a final resting place outside the Vatican aligns with his broader emphasis on humility and simplicity.