The Catholic world is in mourning following the death of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, which occurred on the night of April 21 at the age of 88. His passing marks the beginning of solemn ceremonies, governed by the Ordo exsequiarum romani pontificis, a liturgical text that the pontiff himself modified in 2024 to simplify his funeral rites, bringing them closer to those of any bishop.
Preparation of the Body and First Veneration
After his death at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, his remains were embalmed and clothed in a simple white cassock, recalling the humility that marked his pontificate. Transferred to the residence's private chapel, the rite of the "verification of death" was carried out in the presence of the Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, close associates of the Pope, and Vatican authorities. This act, scheduled for 8 PM this Monday, included the placement of the red liturgical vestments, the papal mitre, and the pallium—a symbol of his Petrine ministry—into a double coffin of zinc and wood.
Contrary to past customs, the body will not be displayed on an elevated platform, but in an open coffin, in accordance with the reform desired by Pope Francis to avoid any ostentation. The papal ferula is also absent, underscoring equality in death.
The coffin was then carried in procession to St. Peter's Basilica, sprinkled with holy water, and incensed before the main altar. It will remain there to allow the faithful, who have come from the four corners of the world, to pay their last respects.
Before the funeral Mass, the Cardinal Camerlengo will preside over the sealing of the double coffin. In the presence of the cardinals, close associates, and collaborators, the Rogito—a document summarizing the life and work of the pontiff—will be read, signed, and then placed in the coffin along with a purse containing coins minted during his reign. The Pope's face will be veiled with a white silk cloth, and the zinc coffin will be sealed with four seals of Vatican authority.
The Funeral Mass: A Liturgy of Hope
Celebrated by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, the Mass will be held in St. Peter's Square. The readings—including the poignant dialogue between Jesus and Peter in John 21—and the homily will emphasize the Paschal mystery. The universal prayers will implore for the deceased Pope, the Church, the nations, and all the faithful departed, culminating with the Magnificat and psalms during the final procession.
Contrary to the tradition of the Vatican grottoes, Pope Francis will rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a place he cherished. After a final prayer led by the Camerlengo, the wooden coffin will be sealed and placed in his tomb, accompanied by the Salve Regina. A notarial act will certify the burial, concluding the earthly journey of the 266th successor of Peter.
Nine Days of Prayer
According to custom, nine "novendiales" Masses will be celebrated, three reserved for the Papal Chapel and the others open to the faithful of Rome and the Eastern Churches.
In every detail, from the simplicity of the coffin to the choice of burial place, shines the legacy of a Pope who wished to remain, to the very end, "a man among men, a believer among believers."
May the Lord, the Eternal Shepherd, welcome him into the light of His Kingdom.