Pope Francis Requests Humble Burial in His Will

As Reported by EFE

Here Are the Details

Pope Francis specified in his will his desire to be buried in a simple, undecorated tomb at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome.

The document was published this Monday following his death at the age of 88, caused by a cerebral stroke that occurred at 7:35 a.m. local time (5:35 GMT).

The text, dated June 29, 2022, was written with full awareness of his health condition and clearly states his wish that his remains rest:

“In the earth; simple, without particular decoration and with the only inscription: Franciscus,” in a niche located between the Pauline Chapel —which houses the image of Salus Populi Romani— and the Sforza Chapel, inside the historic Marian sanctuary.

Pope Francis Requests Humble Burial in His Will

Testament of Pope Francis reveals his final wish for a simple and faith-filled burial. https://t.co/lm5hjus9uz

– Acceso Directo (@Accesodirectop) April 21, 2025

In the will, the pontiff highlights his devotion to the Virgin Mary and his deep faith in eternal life:

“Feeling that the end of my earthly life is approaching, and with a lively hope in Eternal Life, I wish to express my will only regarding the place of my burial. I have always entrusted my life and my ministry […] to the Mother of Our Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary.”

Pope Francis also explained that he wanted to conclude his “last earthly journey” in the same place where he used to pray at the beginning and end of each apostolic trip.

Through this gesture, he seeks to maintain a living connection with the Marian faith that shaped his papacy.

Reinforcing His Image of Humility and Closeness to the People

? Pope Francis wrote his will before his death: important document revealed https://t.co/q1vbwalaba

– Diario Expreso (@Expresoperu) April 21, 2025

The funeral expenses will be covered by a benefactor whose identity has not been disclosed.

However, Pope Francis left specific instructions regarding this person to Monsignor Rolandas Makrickas, extraordinary commissioner of the Liberian Chapter.

Finally, the will concludes with a request for prayers and an offering of his suffering for the common good:

“May the Lord grant the deserved reward to those who have loved me and who will continue praying for me.

I offered to the Lord the suffering that was present in the final part of my life for peace in the world and fraternity among peoples.”

A Less Traditional Burial

Testament of Pope Francis revealed https://t.co/kwvp8uohco

– T13 (@t13) April 21, 2025

With this decision, Pope Francis distances himself from the traditional burial in the Vatican Grottoes.

Reaffirming his image of humility and closeness to the people, even after death.

As Reported by EFE.

ALSO OF INTEREST: Pope Francis Dies of Stroke: What It Means and How It Happens