A Shift in Papal Traditions

Pope Francis, at 87 years old, has announced a significant shift in the burial traditions of the Roman Catholic Church. In a move that reflects his vision of a more humble and accessible faith, the pope has opted for a simpler funeral ceremony that deviates from the elaborate customs followed by his predecessors.

The Vatican disclosed on Wednesday that the pope has chosen to be interred in a single wooden casket, lined with zinc. This decision marks a departure from the centuries-old practice of interring popes in a set of three nested caskets made of cypress, lead, and oak, a tradition that has been part of papal burials for generations.

A New Liturgical Approach

Earlier this year, Pope Francis approved an updated edition of the liturgical book that governs papal funerals, known as the “Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis”, or the “Order of Roman Pontifical Funerals.” This revised text, finalized in April 2023, was delivered to the pope on November 4, and it replaces a previous version sanctioned by Saint John Paul II in 1998. The former edition had been used for the funerals of both John Paul II and Benedict XVI, albeit with some modifications over the years.

Archbishop Diego Ravelli, who serves as the Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, emphasized that the update was essential for reflecting Pope Francis’ vision for the Church. “It became necessary, first of all, because Pope Francis requested it,” Ravelli stated. “He has emphasized, on several occasions, the need to simplify and adapt certain rites so that the funeral of the Bishop of Rome better reflects the Church’s faith in the Risen Christ.”

Highlighting Humility and Discipleship

Ravelli further noted that the renewed rite is designed to underline the papacy as that of a pastor and disciple of Christ, rather than merely a powerful figure in the world. This sentiment aligns with Pope Francis’ overarching mission to instill a sense of humility and compassionate service within the Church.

Burial Outside Vatican Walls

In a further break from tradition, Pope Francis has expressed a desire to be buried outside the Vatican. He has requested interment at Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, a church he frequently visits for prayer before and after international trips. Should this request be honored, Francis will become the first pope in over a century to be laid to rest outside Vatican City. The last to do so was Pope Leo XIII, who was buried in Rome’s Basilica of St. John Lateran in 1903.

Simplification of Funeral Practices

Pope Francis’ decision to forego the traditional three-casket burial system is not just a matter of personal preference; it is emblematic of his broader initiative to modernize the Church’s practices. Unlike his predecessors, who received public viewing on a raised platform in St. Peter’s Basilica, Francis’ body will remain in its casket with the lid removed, allowing for more private mourning rather than public spectacle.

This streamlined approach is a manifestation of Francis’ long-term vision to simplify the complex and prolonged rituals typically associated with papal funerals. In a world where materialism often overshadows spirituality, the pope is advocating for a return to the core values of humility and faith.

Looking to the Future

The changes instituted by Pope Francis regarding his funeral offer a glimpse into the future of the Catholic Church’s stewardship under his leadership. The pontiff’s commitment to humility serves not only as a personal legacy but also as a guiding principle for the Church moving forward.

As the Church navigates contemporary challenges and strives to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world, Francis aims to reshape its image into one that is more relatable, community-focused, and spiritually grounded. By prioritizing simplicity in his own life and death, he hopes to inspire others to embrace similar values.