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The world is mourning as we prepare to say goodbye to Pope Francis, a pontiff who redefined the papacy with his humility and devotion to the people. His funeral is set to take place soon, and while it is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of mourners, discussions about its costs reveal a departure from the opulent ceremonies of the past.
For centuries, papal funerals have been grand, with elaborate procedures and high expenses, often amounting to millions. However, Pope Francis expressed a desire for a more understated departure. Over the years, he demonstrated his commitment to simplicity through his lifestyle choices—living in the Vatican guest house rather than the lavish Apostolic Palace and traveling in modest vehicles. This simplicity is now reflected in his funeral arrangements, which are anticipated to be significantly less costly than his predecessors.
One of the key changes initiated by Pope Francis was the modification of burial traditions. In 2024, he altered the longstanding requirement of having three coffins—composed of cypress, oak, and lead—and replaced it with the option for a single wooden coffin lined with zinc. Additionally, Pope Francis’s wishes to be buried outside the Vatican are set to be honored at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a site that holds great significance for him. This will make him the first pope to be laid to rest there in over 400 years.
Santa Maria Maggiore, as it is known, is one of the oldest and most revered churches in Rome, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Historically, this basilica has welcomed many popes, and it was regularly visited by Francis after his trips abroad. It features stunning mosaics and chapels that beautifully reflect the spirit of devotion and history. The square outside the basilica bustles with life, contrasting sharply with the tranquility of the church interior.
As preparations for the funeral unfold, the Vatican has kept tight-lipped about the specific costs; however, it’s clear that the Church is navigating financial challenges amid declining membership in wealthier nations, while still serving the needs of a growing number of Catholics in less affluent countries. Hotels in the vicinity of the Vatican are already reporting full bookings, indicating the global interest in attending the funeral of this beloved pope.
On the day of the funeral, many people are expected to line the streets as Pope Francis makes his final journey from the Vatican to Santa Maria Maggiore. Among the crowds will be both devout Catholics and curious tourists who want to pay their respects. Some may come to witness the historic moment, while others will seek connection to the legacy of a man who embodied compassion and humility.
Pope Francis’s decision to choose Santa Maria Maggiore as his final resting place comes with a personal narrative. During a conversation in May 2022 with the basilica's senior priest, he expressed his desire, saying, "the Virgin Mary has told me to prepare my tomb." His burial site will be positioned next to the icon of Mary, a fitting honor for a pope who frequently sought her intercession before embarking on journeys.
In the days that follow, as the world reflects on the life of Pope Francis, Santa Maria Maggiore will become a place of pilgrimage. People will continue to visit, seeking solace in the sacred space where he will rest. It is a site that exudes historical significance, serving as a backdrop for countless prayers and confessions, and will likely become a part of the narrative surrounding his legacy.
Pope Francis redefined many aspects of the papacy, including his approach to life and death. As we prepare to bid a heartfelt farewell, it’s essential to celebrate not only his life but also the values he championed—humility, compassion, and simplicity. His funeral will undoubtedly reflect these ideals, providing a deeply emotional farewell to a leader who transformed the Church and touched the lives of millions.
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