VATICAN: Pope Francis, who will turn 87 soon, shared his decision to simplify the grand funeral ceremonies usually held for popes. In a recent interview with Mexico's N+ television on December 12, coinciding with the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, he revealed his intention to be the first pope in over a hundred years to be buried outside the Vatican.
During the interview with Vatican correspondent Valentina Alazraki, recorded before he led a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Francis seemed in good spirits, joking about various topics like his health, immigration, his connection with the late Pope Benedict XVI, and upcoming travel plans. He mentioned feeling healthy but asked for prayers as he copes with the challenges of old age.
Pope Francis shared that he's been collaborating with Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Vatican's master of ceremonies, to simplify the lengthy funeral rites traditionally used for previous popes. Since his papacy began in 2013, Pope Francis has opted not to wear certain traditional garments or symbols associated with the position, like the crimson "mozzetta," gold cross, or the iconic red "shoes of the fisherman" used by past popes. Instead, he continues to wear simpler attire and a plain watch, often donating similar items for charity auctions.
Expressing his devotion to Mary, the Mother of God, Pope Francis has chosen to be buried in Rome's Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a place he frequents for prayers before and after his foreign trips. However, the funeral Mass itself is expected to take place in St. Peter's Square.
Traditionally, many popes have been laid to rest in the crypts beneath St. Peter's Basilica. The last pope buried outside the Vatican was Leo XIII in 1903, interred in the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome.
Pope Francis also addressed the possibility of resigning due to deteriorating health, similar to Pope Benedict XVI's resignation in 2013. However, he believes that papal resignations should not become a regular occurrence.
Reflecting on his health, he mentioned feeling better and being eager to engage in activities, despite occasional advice to be cautious. His recent bout of bronchitis led to canceling a trip to the COP28 climate summit in Dubai. Yet, after undergoing surgery in June for an abdominal hernia, he appears to have fully recovered.
Looking ahead, Pope Francis expressed hopes to make three trips next year: to a location in Polynesia, Belgium, and his native Argentina, marking his first visit there since becoming pope in 2013.
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