Following the death of Pope Francis, attention has shifted to his final wishes—particularly his request to break with tradition regarding his burial. Rather than being interred in the Vatican alongside most popes, he chose a resting place that reflected his humility and deep devotion: the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis redefined leadership in the Catholic Church by emphasizing compassion, modesty, and service. Even in death, he remained true to those values.
As his health declined in his final months, the Vatican discreetly began making funeral preparations. On the morning of April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away at Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, confirmed the news and honored the Pope’s lifelong dedication to the Church and the poor.
In a 2023 interview with Mexico’s N+, Pope Francis revealed he had already discussed his funeral plans with Archbishop Diego Ravelli. He expressed a desire for a simple service and joked, “I’ll be the first to try out the new ritual.” He had approved updated rites in late 2024, designed to emphasize his role as a bishop rather than a monarch.
While most popes are buried beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis opted for the Basilica of St. Mary Major—home to the beloved icon Salus Populi Romani, which he often visited and prayed before. He had a deep personal connection to the site, dating back to his visits as a cardinal.
The last pope buried there was Clement IX in 1669, making Francis’ choice both symbolic and historic.
In his final months, he remained open about his health struggles but insisted he had not seriously considered resigning, though he acknowledged it might one day be necessary. If that ever happened, he said he would live in a home for retired priests in Rome—not the Vatican—underscoring his wish to remain close to ordinary people.
Health Struggles and Growing Concerns
Starting in early 2025, Pope Francis faced worsening health issues. On February 14, he was admitted to the Gemelli Hospital due to bronchitis, which progressed into bilateral pneumonia. He required high-flow oxygen and complex treatment for a polymicrobial infection.
The Vatican issued cautious updates while the Pope continued receiving visitors, praying, and reading. On February 22, the Holy See reported he was in “critical condition,” suffering from breathing difficulties, anemia, and thrombocytopenia, requiring blood transfusions.
Though alert and communicative, his fatigue and limited mobility raised serious concern. Doctors reported he was not on a ventilator but still required ongoing care and would remain hospitalized for some time.
Even during this period, Pope Francis maintained his sense of humor. When greeted by a doctor as “Holy Father,” he replied with a smile, “Hello, Holy Son.”
Despite the optimism from his care team, the risk of complications, particularly from infection, remained serious. Officials restricted his physical activity and suspended his public addresses.
His health battles weren’t new. In March 2023, he was hospitalized for a respiratory infection, and in June of that year, underwent surgery for a hernia. Yet, each time, he returned to duty as quickly and quietly as possible—often choosing humility over public spectacle.
As his condition worsened in 2025, rumors swirled about preparations by the Swiss Guard, though officials denied any change in protocol. Behind the scenes, the Pope continued appointing key Church figures and finalizing initiatives that reflected his progressive vision for the Church’s future.
Cardinal Angelo Comastri described Pope Francis as calm in his final days, saying, “His helm is in the hands of the Lord.”
At Gemelli Hospital, concerned worshippers gathered outside to offer prayers, hopeful but aware that the Church was nearing the end of a transformative chapter in history. Pope Francis’ legacy of humility and reform will resonate far beyond his chosen burial site—and long into the future of the Church he reshaped.