Pope Francis’ Final Wishes Reflect His Lifelong Humility
Following the passing of Pope Francis, attention has turned to his deeply personal and unconventional funeral wishes. Rather than being laid to rest beneath St. Peter’s Basilica like most of his predecessors, Pope Francis chose to be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome—reflecting his enduring devotion and humility.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis redefined what it meant to be the head of the Catholic Church. Emphasizing simplicity, compassion, and service, he made it clear long before his death that he wanted to be remembered not as a ruler, but as a servant of the people.
In his final months, as his health deteriorated, the Vatican quietly began preparing for his passing. On the morning of April 21, 2025, he died peacefully at Casa Santa Marta. His death was officially announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who praised the Pope’s unwavering commitment to the Church and the poor.
A Break with Tradition
In a December 2023 interview, the Pope candidly discussed his funeral plans, revealing that he had worked closely with Archbishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli to simplify the rites. “We’ve stripped it down quite a bit,” he said lightheartedly, adding, “I’ll be the first to try the new ritual.”
This decision marked a departure from tradition. Historically, popes have been interred in the Vatican Grottoes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. The last pope buried elsewhere was Leo XIII in 1903. As for St. Mary Major, it has not been used for a papal burial since Clement IX in 1669.
Pope Francis had a longstanding connection to the basilica, particularly to the icon Salus Populi Romani, a revered image of the Virgin Mary. Before and during his papacy, he would pray there, often after international trips. His burial request was consistent with his focus on humility and accessibility.
In November 2024, he formally approved updated funeral rites that emphasized his role as Bishop of Rome rather than a monarch. This liturgical change followed the complexities surrounding the funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in 2022, which prompted Francis to streamline the process for future pontiffs.
Health Struggles and Final Days
By early 2025, Pope Francis’ health had taken a noticeable turn. After suffering from persistent bronchitis, he was hospitalized on February 14. Tests soon revealed bilateral pneumonia, and he was treated for a serious polymicrobial infection. He remained in “good spirits” but required high-flow oxygen and intensive care.
Updates from the Vatican described his condition as “critical” by February 22. He experienced a respiratory crisis and blood tests showed signs of anemia and low platelet levels, requiring transfusions. Though not on a ventilator, his breathing difficulties significantly restricted his mobility.
Despite his worsening health, the Pope continued reading, praying, and receiving visitors. A light moment was shared when a doctor greeted him with “Hello, Holy Father,” and Francis replied, “Hello, Holy Son.”
Doctors cautioned that although he was not in immediate danger of death, he was far from out of the woods. Their greatest concern was the potential for sepsis. Nevertheless, there was hope he would recover and return to Casa Santa Marta, though his chronic respiratory issues would remain.
Out of caution, his usual public addresses—including his Angelus blessing—were suspended. This was a rare measure, reflecting the seriousness of his condition.
A Legacy of Reform
This was not the first time Pope Francis had faced serious health setbacks. In 2023, he was hospitalized twice—once for a respiratory infection, and later for surgery related to a painful hernia. Each time, he returned to his duties quietly and without fanfare.
As concerns about his health grew in early 2025, so did rumors of the Vatican making preparations for the end of his papacy. Although the Swiss Guard denied reports of heightened alert, sources indicated the Pope was in significant pain and aware of his condition’s severity.
Even in his final days, Pope Francis remained focused on his mission. He accelerated key appointments and finalized reforms, ensuring his progressive vision would continue beyond his lifetime. His legacy included efforts to modernize the Church, bridge divides, and put compassion above all else.
Cardinal Angelo Comastri offered a final reflection on the Pope’s demeanor: “Francis is very serene. His helm is in the hands of the Lord.”
Outside the Gemelli Hospital, pilgrims gathered to pray, honoring the man who changed the Church not only through words—but through the quiet power of humility, right to the very end.
