Pope Francis’ Funeral: A Simple Ceremony for a Man of the People

Pope Francis was laid to rest yesterday, following a funeral Mass attended by thousands of mourners from around the world. His coffin had been sealed the night before in a private ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica, after an emotional lying-in-state that saw an estimated quarter of a million faithful come to pay their respects over the past several days.

The late Pope had been resting in front of the Confessio altar in a simple wooden coffin, draped in a red chasuble, with a white mitre placed on his head. This reflected Pope Francis’ decision for his final resting place to be simple and humble, forgoing the usual catafalque and instead choosing to rest his coffin directly on the floor.

The ceremony, led by Cardinal-Camerlengo Kevin Farrell, began with a solemn reading recounting Pope Francis’ journey from his early years as a pastor in Argentina, where he was known for his humility, to his time as the 266th Pope. His tireless work, including taking the metro to work, preparing his own food, and living humbly, is remembered as part of the profound legacy he leaves behind.

Archbishop Diego Ravelli gently spread a white silk cloth over the Pope’s face, as Cardinal Farrell sprinkled holy water over him. A bag containing coins and medals minted during his pontificate was placed in the coffin, followed by the sealing of the zinc lid. The coffin was adorned with a plaque bearing the Pope’s name and the duration of his papacy, along with the Pope’s cross and coat of arms.

With psalms sung and the final seals of the Cardinal-Camerlengo and the Vatican’s Prefecture of the Papal Household placed on the coffin, Pope Francis’ earthly journey came to a close.

As the world mourns his passing, the Vatican now prepares for the next step: the papal conclave. This sacred event, which will take place in the coming days, will see the Cardinals of the Catholic Church gather to elect the next Pope. The conclave is a time of great tradition, and the selection of a new leader will mark the next chapter for the Church.

The legacy of Pope Francis—his humility, compassion, and commitment to peace—will continue to inspire the faithful and guide the Catholic Church into its next era.