On April 26, 2025, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis, a pontiff whose humility and progressive vision redefined the modern Catholic Church. His funeral and burial were marked by both solemn tradition and intentional departures from centuries-old customs, reflecting the values he championed throughout his life.​
A Farewell in St. Peter’s Square
The funeral Mass took place in St. Peter’s Square, drawing an estimated 250,000 mourners, including world leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Prince William. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presided over the ceremony, delivering a homily that emphasized Pope Francis’s legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and advocacy for the marginalized .​New York Post+5AP News+5Financial Times+5AP News+4Latest news & breaking headlines+4The Guardian+4
In keeping with his wishes, Pope Francis’s body lay in a simple wooden coffin adorned only with a crucifix and his papal coat of arms. This choice broke from the traditional use of three nested coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak, underscoring his commitment to simplicity .​AP News+1CBS News+1People.com
A Procession Through Rome
Following the Mass, the coffin was transported through the streets of Rome to the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Thousands lined the route, paying their respects as the procession passed by . This journey not only honored the Pope but also symbolized his deep connection to the people and the city he served.​Sky News+6CBS News+6YouTube+6YouTube
A Humble Resting Place
In a significant departure from tradition, Pope Francis chose to be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major rather than the customary site of St. Peter’s Basilica. This basilica held personal significance for him; he often visited to pray before the Salus Populi Romani icon of the Virgin Mary, a figure he deeply revered . His final resting place is marked by a simple tomb bearing only his papal name, “Franciscus,” reflecting his desire for humility even in death .​CBS News+1Sky News+1Sky News+3People.com+3AP News+3
A Legacy of Compassion and Reform
Pope Francis’s 12-year papacy was characterized by a focus on humility, social justice, and inclusivity. He was known for his efforts to reach out to the marginalized, his advocacy for environmental stewardship, and his progressive stance on various social issues . His choices in death mirrored his life’s work, emphasizing simplicity and a deep connection to the faithful.​AP News+1The Guardian+1
As the Church enters a nine-day period of mourning, known as the “novemdiales,” preparations begin for the conclave to elect his successor. Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy that will continue to influence the Catholic Church and its followers for generations to come.​The Guardian+3The Washington Post+3AP News+3
For a visual account of the funeral procession, you can watch the coverage here:
