Pope Francis Modernizes Papal Funeral Rites with Simpler Ceremonies

Over 600,000 Catholic faithful gathered in Timor this week to witness the first-ever papal mass in the country, a momentous event marked by Pope Francis‘ groundbreaking announcement regarding the modernization of papal funeral rites. In a bid to align with his vision of a more modest Catholic Church, the pontiff has opted to forgo the traditional elaborate burial customs that have characterized papal ceremonies for centuries.

According to Vatican announcements made on Wednesday, the 87-year-old pontiff has decided to be interred in a single wooden casket lined with zinc, departing from the longstanding practice of enshrining popes in three interlocking caskets made of cypress, lead, and oak. This change reflects Francis’ commitment to simplicity and accessibility within the Church’s practices.

Pope Francis has approved a new edition of the «Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis» or «Funeral Rites of the Roman Pontiff,» first conceived in 1998 under Saint John Paul II. The updated edition, introduced in November, includes several adjustments to simplify and modernize the funeral rites. Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, noted the importance of revising the rites, stating that it underscores the notion of the pope as a shepherd and disciple of Christ rather than a worldly leader.

In addition to the streamlined casket, Francis will be the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican grounds. He has expressed a desire to be laid to rest at Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, a site he frequently visits. The last pope to be buried outside the Vatican was Leo XIII in 1903.

The changes also address the traditional public viewing of the deceased pontiff’s body. While the body will still be displayed for public respects in St. Peter’s Basilica, it will remain inside the casket with the lid removed, deviating from the practice of displaying the body on a raised platform.

Pope Francis’ health has been an ongoing concern, as the pontiff, who turns 88 next month, contends with knee and back pain that requires the use of a wheelchair. Despite these challenges, he has maintained an active schedule, including significant international travels.

The Vatican’s announcement comes amid Pope Francis’ broader mission to simplify various papal customs and align them with a more contemporary reflection of faith and service, reaffirming his commitment to a humble vision of the Church and its leaders.