Pope Francis Buried at Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Breaking Tradition

Pope Francis Buried at Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Breaking Tradition

By : Maria Livinus 

Pope Francis was laid to rest on Friday at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, departing from the tradition of burying popes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

The Holy Father, who passed away at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness, had expressed his wish to be buried at the Marian shrine, where he had often prayed throughout his pontificate. His final rites were attended by a large gathering of faithful, world leaders, and dignitaries, including a delegation from Nigeria led by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

In a solemn ceremony, presided over by Dean of the College of Cardinals Giovanni Battista Re, Pope Francis’s coffin was carried into the Basilica by members of the Swiss Guard and Vatican officials. Bells tolled across Rome as the city paid its final respects.

Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, became the first Jesuit pope and the first pope from the Americas in 2013. His papacy was marked by humility, social justice advocacy, and efforts to reform the Roman Curia.

Before his death, Pope Francis made his final public appearance during the Easter celebrations, where he appeared frail but determined to bless the congregation. He spent his final days in prayer and reflection, attended by close aides and medical personnel.

Following his burial, tributes have poured in from across the globe, celebrating his life and legacy. President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria praised Francis as a "moral compass for the world" and expressed condolences on behalf of the Nigerian people.

The Vatican has announced that a period of mourning will continue for nine days, culminating in a special memomorial.

Credit : premium times