The late pontiff’s will outlines a modest burial at Santa Maria Maggiore, paid for by a private benefactor, as Vatican prepares funeral.
Pope Francis’ Will
The Vatican has announced the passing of Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Catholic Church, who died on Monday at the age of 88 following a stroke that resulted in a coma and irreversible heart failure. His death came just one day after his unexpected appearance at Easter celebrations in St. Peter’s Square.
Following the announcement, the Vatican released the contents of the pope’s last will, revealing his humble wishes for his final resting place.
The Will: A Reflection of Faith and Simplicity
Dated June 29, 2022, Pope Francis wrote his final testament with emotional clarity, stating:
“With the feeling that the sunset of my earthly life is approaching, I wished to express my preferences only regarding plans for my burial.”
“I have always entrusted my life and my priestly and episcopal ministry to the Mother of Our Lord, Mary Most Holy,” the will continues. “Therefore, I ask that my mortal remains rest awaiting the day of resurrection in the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.”
“I ask that my tomb be prepared in the burial niche in the side aisle between the Pauline Chapel (Chapel of the Salus Populi Romani) and the Sforza Chapel of the Basilica. The tomb should be in the ground; simple, without particular ornamentation, bearing only the inscription: Franciscus,” he concluded.
This deeply personal request echoes Pope Francis’ lifelong commitment to humility, accessibility, and devotion to Mary.
Burial Site: Santa Maria Maggiore
The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore holds a special place in Pope Francis’ heart. From his first day as pope, he often visited the Salus Populi Romani icon housed there, a revered image of the Virgin Mary. The basilica is also the final resting place of six other popes, tying his wishes to a long-standing papal tradition.
Burial Costs: Covered by a Private Benefactor
True to his modest nature, the pope made arrangements for the funeral and burial costs to be covered by a benefactor.
“The cost of preparing the burial will be covered by a sum provided by a benefactor, which I have arranged to be transferred to the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major,” he stated in the will.
This ensures that no Church funds are used, reaffirming his values of humility and stewardship even in death.
Funeral Preparations Underway
According to the Apostolic Constitution, Pope Francis’ funeral must be held between the fourth and sixth day after death. Cardinals are currently deliberating the exact date.
In a symbolic gesture, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra sealed both the papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace and the late pope’s quarters at Casa Santa Marta, marking the end of his physical presence in the Vatican.
A Humble Legacy
President Cyril Ramaphosa called Pope Francis “a spiritual leader who sought to unite humanity” — a sentiment mirrored in his final wishes. A simple tomb, a heartfelt devotion to Mary, and the absence of pomp will define his final resting place.
As preparations for his funeral unfold, millions around the world mourn not only a pope, but a humble shepherd who left an indelible mark on the modern Church.
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