Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, has left behind a testament reflecting his lifelong devotion to simplicity and humility. In his will, he requested to be buried in a modest grave at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, diverging from the tradition of papal burials within the Vatican.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Burial Location: Pope Francis chose the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome for his final resting place, a site he frequented for prayer.
- Tomb Specifications: He requested a simple, undecorated grave with only the inscription "Franciscus".
- Final Wishes: The Pope expressed gratitude for those who loved and prayed for him, offering his suffering for world peace and brotherhood.
- Funeral Arrangements: His funeral is set to occur within four to six days, followed by a nine-day mourning period before the conclave to elect his successor begins.
Pope Francis's decision to forgo the traditional papal burial in the Vatican underscores his commitment to humility and his deep connection to the Virgin Mary. This choice reflects a broader theme of his papacy, which emphasized simplicity and accessibility. His final wishes offer a poignant testament to his values and will likely influence future discussions on papal traditions.
Pope Francis’s final testament serves as a lasting reminder of his dedication to humility and service. As the Church prepares for the upcoming conclave, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire. For more details, you can read the full text of his final wishes here
