Pope Francis: A Simpler Legacy in His Last Rites

As the world pays tribute to Pope Francis, his funeral reflects his enduring vision of a humble papacy.

In a moment that contrasts sharply with the grandeur of previous papal funerals, Pope Francis’s final farewell embraces a more understated approach, mirroring his philosophy of simplification. His body lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing a world of fervent followers to pay their respects before his funeral on Saturday. This transition comes after Francis’s preference for a life that rejected the ostentation typically associated with the papacy.

During the procession to the basilica, there were no extravagant ceremonies reminiscent of the opulence that marked the funerals of his predecessors. Instead, the event commenced solemnly, with cardinals engaged in silent prayer for ten minutes before the procession began. Francis's coffin, intentionally placed low, gave mourners a chance to connect intimately with his legacy, contrasting the high altars and grandeur of previous papal ceremonies.

The choice of a simpler procession does not diminish the significance of the occasion; rather, it serves to highlight Francis's vision of the pope as a shepherd to the people, rather than a distant monarch. Although the funeral will still be steeped in tradition, the larger-than-ever number of participating cardinals—252, though attendance may vary—promises a somber yet magnificent farewell that honors both his legacy and the church.

Amidst the tide of change, the humility embodied in his funeral reflects the spirit of a pontificate characterized by a focus on pastoral care. Pope Francis famously prioritized outreach and connection over extravagance, and his final rites are a testament to that mission, even as they showcase a grand display of Catholic pageantry. With both a visual simplicity and profound symbolism, the world bids farewell to a leader who altered the expectations of the papacy.