Pope Francis' Final Moments: A Simplicity-Driven Farewell

A reflection on the solemnity and humility surrounding Pope Francis' death and the initial rites preceding his funeral reveal a profound emphasis on simplicity and tradition within the Vatican.

In the early hours of April 22, 2025, the world began to mourn the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. Long before masses gathered in St. Peter’s Square and tributes poured in from global leaders, the Vatican adhered to its traditional procedures following the death of a pope. Shortly after his passing, the pope’s body was moved from the modest guesthouse in Vatican City to the Chapel of Santa Marta, where a small ceremony was conducted.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, confirmed the pope's death by reading the official declaration aloud in front of a select assembly of Vatican officials and the pope’s family. Photographs released by the Vatican depicted the scene, showcasing the legacy of simplicity that Francis championed throughout his papacy. Unlike the opulent surroundings that characterized the final moments of some of his predecessors, Francis’ farewell took place in a stark setting—a reflection of the humility he sought to instill in the Catholic Church.

As per his directives, Francis’ coffin was a straightforward wooden structure lined with zinc, diverging from the more elaborate traditional practice of interring popes in three coffins. This simplification followed Francis’ broader mandate for a papal funeral, emphasizing the virtue of humility. Even as he endeavored to modernize aspects of the Church, the photos illustrate the enduring reverence for long-standing customs that remain within the Vatican.

The subsequent days promise a blend of mourning and reflection on Francis’ transformative legacy as the world prepares for an era marked by his leadership.