Pope Francis: A Life of Simplicity and Symbolism

Pope Francis died on Monday, and the Vatican released his last testament, which specified that he should be buried at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major. The Pope, known for his simplicity and aversion to clerical glitz, wanted a simple tomb without ornamentation. He was a lifelong reader who valued literature's ability to engage readers on a deeper level. Despite his emphasis on literature, Francis was also a TV Pope who effectively used images to convey his message, which was rooted in Christian humanism and an affection for the poor. His writings, such as "Laudato Si'" and "Fratelli Tutti," are considered beautiful and thought-provoking.

Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church, passed away on Monday, leaving behind a legacy marked by simplicity, humility, and a deep commitment to the poor. In his final testament, Francis specified that he should be buried at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, breaking with centuries of tradition that saw popes buried inside the Vatican. This decision underscores his vision of a "poor church for the poor," emphasizing his lifelong advocacy for the marginalized.

The basilica, located near Rome's main train station and close to the Argentine embassy, symbolizes Francis's deep connection to his homeland and his solidarity with migrants and ordinary people. His tomb, a simple underground niche bearing only the inscription 'Franciscus,' will be placed near an icon of the Madonna, whom he deeply revered. This choice reflects his emphasis on humility and spiritual devotion over papal grandeur [1].

In a powerful gesture of inclusivity, prisoners and migrants will carry his casket into the basilica, reflecting his lifelong advocacy for the marginalized. The basilica's location outside the Vatican walls places Francis closer to the people, both physically and symbolically, rather than within the secluded, elite confines of St. Peter's Basilica [2].

Francis's burial at St. Mary Major Basilica is a departure from the traditional power and pageantry of the papacy. His decision to be buried in a simple manner, without particular ornamentation, reflects his personal preferences and his desire to distance his legacy from the grandeur of the Vatican [3].

The expenses for the preparation of his burial will be covered by a sum provided by a benefactor, which has been arranged to be transferred to the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major [2]. This reflects Francis's commitment to simplicity and his desire to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Pope Francis's death was announced by Irish Cardinal Kevin Farrell, his camerlengo, or chamberlain, shortly before 10 am. The pontiff's final public utterance was his traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing during the Easter Sunday service [3].

In his final testament, Francis thanked his well-wishers for their prayers and asked them to continue praying even after his demise. He also expressed his desire to offer his suffering to the Lord for world peace and brotherhood among peoples [3].

The funeral ceremonies for Pope Francis will be modest in tone and presentation, in accordance with the reforms he himself approved before his death. The Vatican's revised funeral plans are drawn from the 2024 edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, which Francis personally commissioned [4].

Pope Francis's legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, not just within the Catholic Church but also among those who appreciate his commitment to simplicity, humility, and service to the poor. His writings, such as "Laudato Si'" and "Fratelli Tutti," are considered beautiful and thought-provoking, reflecting his deep understanding of the human condition and his commitment to Christian humanism [1].

References:
[1] https://nigerianbulletin.com/ams/a-pope-among-the-people-francis%E2%80%99s-final-resting-place-beyond-the-walls-of-power.14486/
[2] https://www.irishnews.com/news/northern-ireland/the-tomb-should-be-in-the-ground-simple-without-particular-ornamentation-and-bearing-only-the-inscription-franciscus-AWKNQOHZMNDV3KLU2DNSMWGLBM/
[3] https://www.themirror.com/news/us-news/pope-francis-simple-burial-wish-1105960
[4] https://www.newsweek.com/pope-francis-funeral-arrangements-rituals-plans-different-2064100