Pope Francis asked that his body rest at Saint Mary Major Basilica, waiting for Resurrection Day. He wrote these wishes on June 29, 2022, about two years before he passed away. The testament shows his deep connection to Mary, the mother of Jesus. He noted he had always trusted her during his life as a priest and bishop. His final document starts with Latin words meaning "Pitying and Choosing."
The pope requested a simple burial spot between the Pauline Chapel and Sforza Chapel inside the basilica. He wanted no fancy decorations on his tomb—just his name, "Franciscus," written plainly. He mentioned that someone had already paid for his burial preparations. Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, the basilica's commissioner, received instructions about these arrangements.
Francis ended his testament with prayer requests. He asked God to reward those who loved him and pray for him after death. He offered his final suffering for world peace and brotherhood among all people. The testament became public on Easter Monday, just hours after his death was announced.
The pope requested a simple burial spot between the Pauline Chapel and Sforza Chapel inside the basilica. He wanted no fancy decorations on his tomb—just his name, "Franciscus," written plainly. He mentioned that someone had already paid for his burial preparations. Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, the basilica's commissioner, received instructions about these arrangements.
Francis ended his testament with prayer requests. He asked God to reward those who loved him and pray for him after death. He offered his final suffering for world peace and brotherhood among all people. The testament became public on Easter Monday, just hours after his death was announced.
