Pope Francis Redefines Papal Funerals with Streamlined Traditions

The Vatican announces changes to papal funeral traditions under Pope Francis, reflecting his commitment to a less formal, more pastoral approach to the papacy, including the reduction of coffins and locations for burial.

On November 20th, 2024, the Vatican unveiled new rules aimed at simplifying papal funerals, a move that further cements Pope Francis’s intention to eradicate the excessive grandeur associated with the Roman Catholic Church. This modernization initiative includes significant alterations, such as limiting the number of coffins used for a funeral from three to one, and permitting the burial of the pope in churches other than the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica.

Pope Francis’s papacy has consistently emphasized humility, and these changes reinforce that perspective. Msgr. Diego Ravelli, who oversees pontifical liturgical ceremonies, remarked that the revisions were designed to highlight the pope's role as a mere pastor and disciple of Christ, rather than a figure of worldly power.

Since the inception of his papacy, Francis has intentionally shunned elaborate symbols typical of the Church's tradition, favoring simplicity. His personal habits reflect this ethos; he is often seen wearing a humble Casio watch, using modest vehicles, and living at Casa Santa Marta—a communal residence for members of the clergy—rather than the extravagant apostolic palace.

The recently approved liturgical book updates protocols last set under Pope John Paul II in 2000. Scholars, such as Massimo Faggioli from Villanova University, believe these changes mark a pivotal moment in Francis’s legacy, comparing future papal funerals more closely to those of diocesan bishops rather than the elaborate ceremonies of past popes.

Previously, Pope Francis expressed a desire to be interred in Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica rather than St. Peter's, having visited the location shortly after his election. The new procedures also dictate that the pope’s body be displayed directly in the coffin for public viewing, rather than on an elevated platform. Under the revised guidelines, the pope will no longer be placed in a lead-lined coffin before being encased in wood.

Despite health concerns in recent years, including multiple surgeries, the 88-year-old pontiff remains active and appears in generally good health, continuing to shape the future of the Church in line with his vision of simplicity and spiritual leadership.