Pope Francis, the beloved spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death marks the end of a significant era in the Vatican, as he was known for his humility, advocacy for the poor, and emphasis on inclusivity within the Church. As the world mourns, millions of people are preparing to witness the Pope’s funeral on April 26, 2025. Pope Francis will be laid to rest in a simple, dignified manner in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, following the traditions he held dear.
In accordance with Pope Francis’s wishes, his burial will be a solemn and respectful event, honoring his legacy and his deep faith. The Vatican has provided details regarding the items that will accompany him in his casket, all of which reflect the Pope’s life, mission, and connection to his faith. Here’s what will be placed in his casket when he is laid to rest.
Pope Francis’s Final Resting Place
Pope Francis had requested a simple burial, reflecting his character and values throughout his papacy. Instead of the traditional burial method, where popes have been interred in three interlocking caskets made of cypress, lead, and oak, Pope Francis’s body will be placed in a single, zinc-lined wooden coffin. His funeral will break with centuries-old traditions, as he will be buried outside the Vatican—a significant decision given the Church’s long history of burying popes within its walls.
On June 29, 2022, Pope Francis specified his burial wishes, calling for a “simple” tomb with only the inscription “Franciscus.” This request embodies his humility and desire to avoid any unnecessary ornamentation. He also expressed his wish to be laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a Marian sanctuary that he had a special connection to. Pope Francis had often visited the basilica to pray, and it was the place where he entrusted his apostolic journeys to the Immaculate Mother.
A Humble Ceremony
Pope Francis’s funeral will be simple yet profound. After the papal death, a private rite of sealing will take place, led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church. The Rite of Sealing of the Coffin will precede the papal funeral, which will take place the next morning. The ceremony will be an intimate reflection of the Pope’s lifelong commitment to simplicity, with thousands of people expected to gather to pay their respects.
The Vatican anticipates a vast crowd for the funeral, with representatives from all walks of life attending to bid farewell to the Pope. Notable figures, including U.S. President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Prince William, are expected to be present. Despite his humble wishes, Pope Francis’s legacy has left an indelible mark on both the Catholic Church and the world, making this an event of global significance.
Items Placed in the Casket
As per Pope Francis’s wishes, several significant items will accompany him in his casket. These mementos will serve as lasting reminders of his life and his time as the head of the Catholic Church.
1. Papal Coins and Medals
One of the key items placed in the casket will be the papal coins and medals minted during Pope Francis’s pontificate. These coins and medals commemorate significant moments of his papacy and the milestones he achieved. These mementos symbolize the Pope’s tenure and his leadership in shaping the future of the Church.
2. The Papal Deed
Another important item to be included in the casket is a special deed listing the key points of Pope Francis’s 12-year papacy. This document will summarize the major initiatives and milestones of his leadership, reflecting his contributions to the Catholic Church, including his emphasis on social justice, his stance on climate change, and his efforts to bring about interfaith dialogue.
3. Holy Water and Silk Veil
As part of the burial ritual, Pope Francis’s body will be sprinkled with holy water, symbolizing purification and the sanctification of his soul. Additionally, his face will be covered with a white silk veil, a traditional gesture in many Catholic burial rites, symbolizing peace and reverence for the deceased.
4. Pope Francis’s Last Testament
In his final testament, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude for the love and prayers of those who supported him throughout his life and pontificate. He also reflected on his suffering in the final years of his life, offering it up to the Lord for peace in the world and for fraternity among nations. This heartfelt message will be placed in his casket as a testament to his faith and dedication to his mission.
“May the Lord grant a fitting reward to all those who have loved me and who continue to pray for me. The suffering that has marked the final part of my life, I offer to the Lord, for peace in the world and for fraternity among peoples,” Pope Francis wrote in his last testament.
A Spiritual Journey
Pope Francis’s decision to be buried outside the Vatican, in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, holds deep personal meaning. The Pope had a strong devotion to the basilica and often visited it to offer his prayers and seek guidance. This connection reflects his own spiritual journey and the profound role that faith played in shaping his leadership. His burial in this Marian sanctuary will serve as a fitting conclusion to his life of service, prayer, and devotion to the Catholic Church.
The Legacy of Pope Francis
Pope Francis’s death marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church. His commitment to reform, inclusivity, and social justice set him apart as a pontiff who was deeply connected to the struggles of the marginalized and the poor. His legacy will be remembered not only for his efforts to reform the Church but also for his role as a global advocate for peace, justice, and the environment.
As millions of people around the world mourn his passing, they will also reflect on the profound impact he had on the world. Pope Francis’s funeral and burial will be a poignant moment in history, as his legacy lives on in the hearts of the faithful.
Conclusion
Pope Francis’s funeral and burial will be an occasion of great significance, bringing together people from around the world to honor his legacy and his contributions to the Catholic Church. While his burial will be simple and humble, it will reflect the core values that defined his papacy. The items placed in his casket—coins, medals, the papal deed, holy water, and his final testament—serve as powerful symbols of his life and his mission.
As the world prepares to say goodbye to Pope Francis, his memory will continue to inspire generations to come. His example of humility, compassion, and service to others will remain an enduring legacy for the Catholic Church and the world at large.
Sources:
- Vatican News
- Catholic News Agency
- The New York Times
- BBC News
