In line with Pope Francis' longstanding wishes for simplicity, his body was placed in a single wooden coffin, foregoing the traditional three-tier cypress, lead, and oak coffins used in past papal funerals. His preference for modest rites reflects the humility he emphasized throughout his life and papacy, consistent with his commitment to a Church that is closer to the people.
The private ceremony was led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, who is responsible for overseeing the Vatican's activities during the interregnum period. Several other senior church officials assisted in the rites. Personal items, including a white silk veil placed over Pope Francis' face, coins minted during his pontificate, and a deed summarizing significant milestones of his time as pope, were placed inside the coffin before it was sealed. The ceremony featured short hymns, prayers, and a moment of silent reflection, embodying the late pope’s request for simplicity and solemnity.
Following the sealing of the coffin, the Vatican confirmed that a prayer vigil would continue throughout the night at St. Peter’s Basilica, in preparation for the funeral Mass scheduled for Saturday morning. The funeral, set to begin at 10 a.m. local time on the basilica's steps, will also commence the Novendiales, a nine-day period of mourning with daily funeral Masses held at the basilica.
Large crowds continued to gather around the Vatican, particularly due to Italy's Liberation Day holiday, which allowed many citizens and international visitors additional time to pay tribute. Thousands filed through the basilica before it officially closed to the public at 7 p.m. local time. Many mourners, traveling from various countries, described the atmosphere as calm and deeply moving, reflecting Pope Francis’ profound global influence.
Upon conclusion of the funeral rites, Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. His tomb, crafted from Ligurian marble, is designed to be simple and unadorned, featuring only the image of the cross he wore as Archbishop of Buenos Aires and his papal name inscribed in Latin as "Franciscus." His choice to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, rather than the traditional papal tombs beneath St. Peter's Basilica, further emphasizes his preference for humility over grandeur.
The funeral is expected to draw attendance from over 130 international delegations, including heads of state and royalty, demonstrating the late pontiff’s broad appeal beyond the Catholic Church. Security measures across Rome have been heightened to accommodate the significant influx of visitors and dignitaries.
Pope Francis' death and the ceremonies surrounding it have spotlighted his lasting impact on the Church and the wider world. As the first Jesuit and Latin American pope, he was known for his focus on issues such as social justice, environmental responsibility, and outreach to marginalized communities. His papacy often challenged traditional structures while urging the Church to become a field hospital for those suffering in the modern world.
While his passing closes an important chapter for the Catholic Church, the humility and compassion that Pope Francis exemplified will remain central to his legacy. The upcoming nine days of mourning will provide the faithful with a time to reflect on his teachings and the transformative effect he had during his tenure as the Bishop of Rome.
The funeral Mass on Saturday is expected to be one of the most significant Catholic ceremonies of the year, a fitting tribute to a pope who consistently sought to put service to humanity at the center of his mission.
