A Humble Goodbye The Private Farewell To Pope Francis

The Vatican held a small, intimate ceremony marking the passing of Pope Francis, following centuries-old traditions. Here’s a glimpse into the quiet farewell:

A Humble Goodbye The Private Farewell to Pope Francis

Verifying the Pope’s Passing: Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the cardinal chamberlain, performed a ceremony verifying Pope Francis’s death, reading the declaration of death aloud.
Simple Coffin: The Pope’s body was placed in a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc, reflecting his commitment to humility and simplicity.
Private Gathering: The ceremony was attended by a small group of Vatican officials and the Pope’s family members, maintaining a sense of intimacy and solemnity.
Tradition and Reform: Despite his efforts to simplify papal traditions, the ceremony still showcased the rich heritage and rituals of the Catholic Church.

The quiet farewell ceremony sets the tone for the Pope’s funeral, which will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in St Peter’s Square, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.¹ ² ³.

A Humble Goodbye: The Private Farewell to Pope Francis

A Simple yet Traditional Farewell: Pope Francis’s Legacy

As the world prepares to bid farewell to Pope Francis, the Vatican has held a small, intimate ceremony marking the passing of the pontiff. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the cardinal chamberlain, performed a ritual verifying the pope’s death and placing his body in a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc.

A Legacy of Simplicity and Humility

The ceremony reflects Pope Francis’s emphasis on humility and simplicity, as evident in the spare setting and less elaborate coffin. However, traditional elements, such as the red robes, white papal mitre, and pallium, also showcase the continuity of the Catholic Church’s rich heritage.

A Unique Request: Burial at Santa Maria Maggiore

Pope Francis had specified his desire to be buried at the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, a departure from the traditional burial site of St Peter’s Basilica. His request for a simple, undecorated tomb with only the inscription “Franciscus” underscores his commitment to humility.

A Testament to Tradition and Reform

The ceremony and burial arrangements reflect Pope Francis’s efforts to balance tradition with reform, leaving a lasting legacy for the Catholic Church. As the world mourns his passing, the pontiff’s dedication to simplicity, humility, and service will continue to inspire millions.

A Humble Goodbye: The Private Farewell to Pope Francis

The Pontifical Swiss Guard: Tradition and Symbolism
The Pontifical Swiss Guard plays a significant role in Vatican ceremonies, including papal funerals. Two guards flanked Pope Francis’s coffin, symbolising the pope’s role as leader of a sovereign state. The guards’ uniforms reflect the Renaissance origins of the Swiss Guard, with colours inspired by the Medici family.

The Halberds: A Symbol of History

The halberds carried by the guards are a nod to the Swiss Guard’s origins as mercenaries. This traditional weapon represents the Guard’s rich history and dedication to protecting the Vatican.

Symbols of Faith and Office

A rosary was placed over Pope Francis’s hands, signifying his devotion to faith. The ring on his finger is his bishop’s ring, not the Fisherman’s Ring, which is typically worn by popes. The Fisherman’s Ring is destroyed after a pope’s death to prevent forgeries and is replaced with a new one when the next pope is elected.

Burial Traditions and Symbols

Pope Francis’s burial will include a bag containing coins minted during his papacy and a canister with a rogito, a document outlining his life and papacy. The rogito will be read aloud before the coffin is closed.

Departure from Tradition

Unlike past popes, Francis opted out of being embalmed and displayed on a raised pedestal. Instead, his body will be placed in a coffin for public viewing, reflecting his emphasis on humility and simplicity.