Pope Francis, known for his simplicity and humility, left behind a unique testament in 2022 outlining how he wanted to be buried. In contrast to his aversion to grandeur and ornate decorations, the chosen burial site at St. Mary Major in Rome was a far cry from the Vatican’s opulence. The Pope’s body was transported across the Tiber River through the bustling streets of Rome in the Popemobile, surrounded by cheering crowds, workers on motorcycles, and even children with flowers.
The contrast between Francis’s desire for simplicity and the grandeur of his papacy raises questions about the nature of leadership and spirituality. While he often emphasized the importance of community and social justice, his own life was marked by a sense of eclecticism and openness to new experiences. From his early days as a Jesuit priest in Argentina to his current role as the leader of the world’s Catholics, Francis has consistently sought to challenge traditional boundaries and engage with the complexities of modern society.
As the Popemobile rolled through Rome, it passed by iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica, but Francis’s gaze was not on grandeur or glory. Instead, he seemed to be taking in the beauty and diversity of the city, from the makeshift stalls selling flowers to the workers with their faces set against the noise and pollution. This sense of openness and receptivity is a hallmark of his papacy, one that has inspired millions around the world.
Francis’s final journey also serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and the need to connect with the everyday people who make up our communities. As he lay on his deathbed, surrounded by loved ones and devoted followers, Francis seemed to be taking in the beauty of life itself – its messiness, complexity, and unpredictability.
In the end, it was not a grand or spectacular departure that marked Pope Francis’s passing, but a quiet and unassuming one. As he said himself, “Reconciliation and peace are also born of the heart.” His testament may be simple, but it speaks to something deeper about human nature – our need for connection, community, and a sense of belonging in this messy and beautiful world.
Source: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/on-television/francis-the-tv-pope-takes-his-final-journey