Pope Francis Makes History with Simplified Funeral Rites
In a move that has been seen as a departure from centuries of Roman Catholic tradition, Pope Francis has opted for a simplified funeral ritual, setting the stage for his own mourning. According to a report by The New York Times, Francis approved a streamlined procedure for papal funeral rites late last year, which was put into practice on Wednesday morning.
The procession, which took place on Wednesday, saw Francis’ coffin carried from the Casa Santa Marta, the cardinals’ guesthouse where he lived, to St. Peter’s Basilica, where his body will lie in state for three days. The basilica’s grandeur, with its 380-foot-high Renaissance dome and gorgeous mosaics, provided a stunning backdrop for the solemn occasion. The pope’s remains were placed in front of the bronze canopy that Bernini created to embellish the high altar, but on a low pedestal rather than a bier.
In an interview with The New York Times, the publication revealed that Francis had specifically requested a simple tomb, "in the earth," with a single-word inscription: "Franciscus." This wish is to be fulfilled at the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, where the pope had prayed before and after every journey of his papacy. The decision to forgo a private viewing at the Apostolic Palace for cardinals and other dignitaries was also seen as a departure from tradition.
"It’s simplicity, of course, that’s relative – in this case, to the breathtaking grandeur bequeathed by centuries of Roman Catholic tradition," The New York Times reported. The publication went on to explain that the plans for Francis’ funeral had omitted several traditional rituals, including a private viewing at the Apostolic Palace.
The pope’s wishes for a simple funeral were made clear in his will, which was obtained by The New York Times. The publication stated that Francis had asked to be buried in a simple tomb, with no elaborate ceremonies or grand goodbyes. This approach has been seen as a reflection of Francis’ commitment to humility and his desire to distance himself from the grandeur often associated with the papacy.
As reported by The New York Times, Elisabetta Povoledo, Emma Bubola, and Alan Yuhas contributed to the reporting of this story. The publication’s coverage of Pope Francis’ funeral rites provides a fascinating insight into the inner workings of the Vatican and the pope’s commitment to simplicity and humility.
In related news, the Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis’ body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica for three days before being buried at the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. The simplified funeral rites, which were put into practice on Wednesday, have been seen as a significant departure from tradition and a reflection of Francis’ commitment to humility.
The New York Times newspaper reported on the traditional rites usually conducted.
