A Guide to the Rites and Rituals Following the Death of Pope Francis

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By Staff Writer with Agencies

Vatican City, 21 April 2025 – The death of Pope Francis on Monday at the age of 88 has set in motion a series of meticulously orchestrated rites and rituals that have been designed to honor the pontiff, confirm his death, and prepare for the forthcoming conclave. These centuries-old ceremonies, along with recent reforms introduced by the late pope, reflect his deep desire to make the process more personal and grounded in humility.

A New Approach to Papal Funerals

Pope Francis, who passed away after a prolonged illness, made significant changes to the traditional rites surrounding papal deaths. Last year, he revised the papal funeral rites, emphasizing the pope’s role as a servant of the people rather than a figure of worldly power. One of the key reforms allowed for burial outside the Vatican, a decision Francis had made according to his wishes.

In keeping with these changes, the “Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis,” the official ritual book for the papal funeral, guides the procedures that follow the pope’s passing. These steps remain anchored in tradition but have been simplified to reflect the pope’s vision for a more humble, pastoral approach to death and burial.

The Declaration of Death

When Pope Francis passed away, the Vatican health service chief conducted a thorough examination of his body to confirm the cause of death. In a notable shift, the formal confirmation of death took place in Francis’s chapel at the Santa Marta residence, rather than the Apostolic Palace, where previous pontiffs have lived. The Camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, presided over the declaration, which was followed by the preparation of the body for public display.

The Public Display

After the confirmation, the pope’s body, dressed in red liturgical vestments, will be placed in a wooden coffin rather than the traditional cypress, lead, and oak combination. The body will remain in St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing, with the Litany of Saints sung during the procession into the basilica. Unlike past practices, the pope’s body will rest at ground level in front of the pews, rather than on an elevated bier, emphasizing his connection to the faithful.

Sealing of the Coffin

The night before the funeral, the Camerlengo will oversee the sealing of the coffin. Inside, a one-page account of Pope Francis’ papacy, known as a “rogito,” along with coins minted during his pontificate, will be placed. These items serve as an official record of his leadership, to be preserved in the Vatican archives. The pope’s coat of arms, which includes a monogram from his Jesuit order, will be affixed to the coffin.

The Funeral and Burial

The funeral will be presided over by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, with Pope Francis’ burial reflecting his personal wishes. Unlike most popes, who are laid to rest in St. Peter’s Basilica, Francis requested to be buried at St. Mary Major Basilica in Rome, close to the Salus Populi Romani icon, a representation of the Virgin Mary he held in deep veneration.

“My great devotion is to this place,” Pope Francis had said of the basilica. “The place is already prepared.” His wish to be buried in this particular church reflects his deep connection to this Marian icon and his desire for a humble resting place.

A Period of Mourning and the Conclave

Following the pope’s burial, the Catholic Church will observe nine days of mourning, known as the novemdiales, during which the faithful will reflect on Pope Francis’ legacy. This period will culminate in the conclave, where cardinals will gather to elect the next pope.

With the passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church enters a pivotal moment in its history. His reforms, his connection with the people, and his legacy of humility will continue to shape the Church in the years to come. Though he has passed, the influence of his teachings and actions will endure, guiding the future of the Catholic faith.

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Pope Francis is gone, but his light and legacy will continue to inspire the world.