The Final Departure: Pope Francis's Humble Farewell

Pope Francis passed away and was honored in a discreet ceremony emphasizing his commitment to modesty, allowing for a personal farewell before the larger public mourning commences.

In the hours following the death of Pope Francis on April 22, 2025, the Vatican adhered to its established protocol for such somber occasions. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, acting as the cardinal chamberlain, presided over a private ceremony that saw the pope’s body transferred from his residence at the Vatican guesthouse to the Chapel of Santa Marta. Here, the official declaration of death was documented in a solemn environment, attended only by a select few Vatican officials and the pope's family.

Captured in newly released photographs, Pope Francis's remains lay in a simple wooden coffin, bearing witness to the understated lifestyle he advocated throughout his papacy. This choice aligns with the changes he instituted only last year, opting for a single, wooden coffin lined with zinc instead of the traditional three-coffin arrangement, which included a lead layer. This simplicity reflects his commitment to a life of humility, encouraging the Roman Catholic Church to embrace a more accessible representation.

Despite his efforts to modernize certain aspects of the papacy, the images from the ceremony also illustrate the longstanding traditions maintained within the Church. Photographic evidence shows that while the pope endeavored to reshape the Church's image, he approached his reforms with caution, blending innovation with respect for established customs.

As the world prepares for public mourning in St. Peter’s Square, the significance of this private farewell ceremony serves to remind us of Pope Francis’s enduring legacy of simplicity and the challenges he faced in his attempts to alter age-old traditions. As global leaders and followers unite in remembrance, discussions regarding potential successors will commence, marking a pivotal transition for the Catholic Church.