The sad news was announced by Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell in an official Statemnet reading: “At 7.35 this morning, the bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the father’s house.
“All his life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and his Church.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, special for the poorest and most marginalized.
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we recommend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinity and merciful love of God, one and tribe.”
Where will Pope Francis be buried?
According to the BBC, Pope Francis is expected to be buried in the Basilica or St. Mary Major, one of the four key papal basilicas located in Rome.
This would make him the first Pope in more than a century to be buried outside the Vatican.
What are the plans for the funeral of Pope Francis?
Before his sad death, the Pope approved plans to make the process of a papal funeral less elaborate and complex.
The previous sacred leaders were buried in three nested coffins made of cypress, lead and oak.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 in his residence at the Santa Marta del Vatican house. pic.twitter.com/juikbplvi2
– Vatican News (@vaticannews) April 21, 2025
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However, Pope Francis has opted for a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc, according to the BBC.
It has also eliminated the tradition of placing the Pope’s body on an elevated platform (known as Catafalque) in the Basilica of San Pedro for public visualization.
On the other hand, the mourners will be invited to come and present their respects while the body remains in the coffin with the eliminated cover.
