A Paradigm Shift: Pope Francis Breaks Century-Old Tradition, Choosing Santa Maria Maggiore for His Final Resting Place
Pope's Audience Decreases: Over 128,000 Individuals Have Parted Ways With the Pope - Over 128,000 individuals bid farewell to the Pope at the Vatican
Wednesday morning saw a solemn procession, as the pope's body was carried from the modest quarters of Santa Marta to the hallowed altar of St. Peter's Basilica. This somber ritual marked the beginning of a week-long vigil, with the coffin to be sealed on Friday evening at 8:00 PM.
Come Saturday, our departed pontiff, as per his own wishes, will find his eternal peace not in the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, but in the humble embrace of Santa Maria Maggiore, a central Roman basilica dating back to the 5th century. He'll join the ranks of the saints, his final resting place adorned with nothing more than a simple earthen grave and the Latin inscription, "Franciscus."
The pope's last breath was taken on Easter Monday, within the walls of Santa Marta, following the celebratory Easter Mass he attended the day prior. His journeys to the outer realms and back were always punctuated by visits to Santa Maria Maggiore to seek the guidance of the Virgin Mary. This year, his mortal journey ends with him cradled in the arms of the same sanctuary.
Santa Maria Maggiore vs. St. Peter's Basilica
While St. Peter's Basilica has traditionally been the burial ground for many popes, Pope Francis's choice to be interred in Santa Maria Maggiore carries deep personal and historical significance.
Santa Maria Maggiore
- Devotional Connection: The pope was deep-rooted in his faith, often seeking solace and guidance in the presence of the Virgin Mary at Santa Maria Maggiore.
- Historical Importance: One of the oldest basilicas in Rome, it boasts a rich cultural and religious heritage.
- Personal Ties: As a cardinal, he forged a strong bond with this church, visiting frequently. His first act as pope involved a visit and prayer at the tomb of the venerable St. Pius V there.
- Innovative Choice: By bucking tradition and opting for Santa Maria Maggiore, Francis serves as the first pope since over a century to not be laid to rest at St. Peter's Basilica.
St. Peter's Basilica
- Transcendent Symbolism: Known as the spiritual heart of Christianity and the central site for Catholic veneration, it is associated with St. Peter himself.
- Traditional Burial Ground: Over the years, it has served as the final resting place for many popes, due to its association with the apostle and its role within the Church.
A Statement of Devotion and Innovation
The pope's choice to rest beside the Virgin Mary instead of being witness to the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica echoes his personal faith and his flair for deviating from tradition, even at the most solemn of ceremonies. His burial place serves as a testament to the juxtaposition of his heartfelt devotion and his penchant for innovation.
Pope Francis, in his final resting place, will be found not at the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica but in the humble embrace of Santa Maria Maggiore. More than 128,000 people have so far said goodbye to the Pope, and on Friday, he will be 'papal' buried at Santa Maria Maggiore. This choice carries deep personal and historical significance, as it breaks a century-old tradition. Santa Maria Maggiore holds a devotional connection and historical importance for the Pope, with its association with the Virgin Mary and being one of the oldest basilicas in Rome. In contrast, St. Peter's Basilica, the traditional burial ground for many popes, symbolizes transcendent spirituality and traditional Catholic veneration. Francis's innovative choice to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore serves as a testament to his heartfelt devotion and his flair for deviating from tradition even at the most solemn of ceremonies.
