Pope Francis Simplifies Papal Funerals to Reflect Humility

In a recent move emphasizing simplicity, Pope Francis has reduced the pomp associated with papal funerals, introducing new rules that reflect his humble approach to leadership and the Church's mission.

In a groundbreaking shift from traditional practices, the Vatican has released new guidelines regarding papal funerals, embodying Pope Francis's enduring commitment to humility and a less formal approach to leadership. Effective immediately, this new ritual allows for a single coffin instead of the customary three and grants the pope the option to be buried in a church apart from St. Peter’s Basilica, a departure from his predecessors.

The changes were officially announced on Wednesday, highlighting Francis's desire to focus on the pastoral aspects of the papacy rather than its ceremonial grandeur. “The funeral of the Roman pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ—and not a powerful person of this world,” stated Msgr. Diego Ravelli, the Vatican’s master of pontifical liturgical ceremonies.

Since the beginning of his papacy, Pope Francis has consistently employed symbols of simplicity to distinguish his reign from the grandeur associated with the Roman Catholic Church's history. He opts for a humble lifestyle, favoring ordinary items like a Casio watch, traveling in modest cars, and residing at Casa Santa Marta, where communal meals promote fellowship over formality.

The recently approved liturgical changes reflect a definitive shift in how the Church envisages the final rites of its leaders. According to theologian Massimo Faggioli, these new guidelines make papal funerals resemble those of diocesan bishops rather than the majestic ceremonies of Roman emperors.

Pope Francis, 88, who has faced various health issues and surgeries, approved these changes in April, which update the previous version ratified by Pope John Paul II in 2000. He previously expressed a personal desire to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica—a church that holds special significance for him—rather than the usual resting place, Saint Peter's.

The new guidelines stipulate that the pope's body will be displayed in a cypress coffin during the viewing period, without use of a raised platform. This further emphasizes Francis's effort to present the papal funeral as an occasion rich with meaning rather than grandeur.

The latest ritual was notably different from the elaborate funeral of Pope Benedict XVI, which adhered to older traditions. As the Church reflects on its values, Francis's leadership style continues to influence how these practices evolve in the modern era.