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Pope Francis Redefines Papal Legacy with Humble Departure
Pope Francis, known for his humility and people-first approach, passed away on April 21, 2025, at Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced his death, honoring his devotion to the Church and the vulnerable.
In a break from tradition, Francis chose not to be buried in the Vatican. Instead, he asked to be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, reflecting his deep personal devotion. In a 2023 interview, he joked about “premiering” a simplified funeral ritual, emphasizing his role as a bishop over papal grandeur.
This decision echoed his efforts to simplify papal traditions, particularly after Pope Benedict XVI’s death in 2022. He approved a revised funeral rite in late 2024, which focused more on humility and less on hierarchy.
Francis battled serious health issues, including pneumonia and bronchitis, in his final years. Despite long hospital stays and respiratory struggles, he remained active and hopeful, though he acknowledged the growing concerns about his health.
Throughout, he rejected the idea of resigning but had prepared to live simply in Rome if retirement became necessary. His burial choice at St. Mary Major, where he often prayed before the Virgin Mary icon Salus Populi Romani, underscored his desire to remain close to the people.
Even as his health worsened, he worked to finalize key reforms and appointments, shaping the Church’s future. As one cardinal noted, “Francis is very serene. His helm is in the hands of the Lord.”
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