What Pope Francis Will Take to His Final Resting Place

The Vatican is making final preparations for the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.

The ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at St. Peter’s Square. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, an Irish-born American archbishop, will lead the funeral proceedings, reflecting the late pontiff's wishes for a more straightforward and meaningful farewell. The funeral is expected to draw global attention, with numerous high-profile dignitaries attending to pay their respects. Among the attendees is United States President Donald Trump, alongside representatives from various countries. 

Kenya’s President William Ruto has appointed National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to represent the nation at the burial. Pope Francis will be interred in a special tomb within the Vatican, following burial practices that deviate from long-standing traditions associated with papal funerals. Historically, popes have been buried in three coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak, each symbolising significant aspects of the papacy—humility, protection, and dignity. 

However, Pope Francis approved changes in 2024 to the "Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis," the Rite of Burial for Roman Pontiffs, simplifying several elements of the funeral rites. In a notable departure, Pope Francis requested a more modest arrangement featuring a wooden coffin lined with zinc. This choice aligns with his lifelong commitment to simplicity and accessibility, values that defined his tenure as pontiff. The burial ceremony will include the symbolic placement of a white silk veil over the pope's face, a gesture signifying God's strength and protection as well as the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Holy water will be sprinkled over the deceased, honouring sacred traditions. Cardinal Farrell will preside over this ritual before the final sealing of the coffin. As preparations for the burial continue, the pontiff's coffin will undergo a special sealing ritual today, Friday, marking the conclusion of three days of public viewing. Thousands of mourners have visited St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their respects, filing past the Altar of the Confession where the late pope’s body lies in state.

The sealing process involves several symbolic elements. A pouch containing coins and medals minted during Pope Francis' tenure will be placed alongside his body, representing each year of his papacy. A total of 12 coins made of gold, silver, and copper will accompany the late pontiff in his final resting place. Additionally, a tube containing the rogito—a sealed document summarising the pope’s life—will be read aloud during the funeral before being interred in the coffin.

The zinc coffin will bear the papal coat of arms, a plaque inscribed with Pope Francis' real name, his lifespan, and details of his Petrine ministry. This casket will be sealed with stamps from the Cardinal Camerlengo, the Pontifical Household, the Office for Liturgical Celebrations, and the Vatican Chapter. The wooden outer coffin, adorned with the same coat of arms and a cross, will then be closed, marking the end of the ceremonial process.

Security at the Vatican has been heightened ahead of the funeral, given the anticipated attendance of global leaders and dignitaries. Meanwhile, Kenyan leaders joined in honouring the pope’s legacy during a requiem Mass held at Holy Family Basilica on Friday, April 25. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta recounted a personal encounter with Pope Francis during his tenure, sharing a lighthearted anecdote about being “thrown out” of his own office during a diplomatic meeting. The pope’s warm and candid nature, as remembered by many, underscored his approachability even in moments of high protocol.

Prominent figures from Kenya’s political landscape, including opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa, also attended the Mass, alongside Chief Justice Martha Koome, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, and other dignitaries. As the world mourns Pope Francis, reflections on his life of service to the Church and humanity continue to pour in. His emphasis on humility, compassion, and reform left a profound impact on Catholicism and beyond, resonating with individuals across faiths and cultures.

The funeral Mass will mark the beginning of the Novemdiales—nine days of mourning and Masses traditionally held for the repose of a pope’s soul.