Pope Francis and The Popes Not Buried In The Vatican | St. Mary Major's Basilica

About this sermon

What happens when a pope dies? The funeral rites of a pope are steeped in centuries of tradition, balancing reverence with a powerful reminder of life’s fragility. Pope Francis, like many of his predecessors, left instructions for his burial in his spiritual testament—but he broke with recent tradition by choosing not to be buried in St. Peter’s Basilica. Instead, he asked to be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a church deeply tied to his personal and spiritual life. This video explores the meaning behind papal funeral rites and how they reflect both the humanity and sanctity of the Bishop of Rome. From the early Christian catacombs to the grand tombs in Roman basilicas, we trace the evolution of where and why popes are buried. We also look at the exceptional cases—like Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIII, and others—who chose alternative sites of burial. Pope Francis' deep connection to St. Mary Major, especially the icon of Salus Populi Romani, was evident throughout his pontificate. His final visit, just days before his passing, was one of prayer and humility. With his burial, the basilica now becomes a new site of pilgrimage—one that reflects his simplicity, Jesuit identity, and love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. Join us for a historical and spiritual reflection on the burial traditions of the popes and what Pope Francis’ final resting place says about his legacy. 🔔 Subscribe for more Catholic content and updates from EWTN 👉🏻 https://bit.ly/ewtnvatican 👥 Follow us on our social networks: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/EWTNVatican/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/EWTNVatican Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EWTNVatican #PopeFrancis #PopeOfMercy #CatholicChurch #PapalLegacy #PopeOfPeace #PopeFrancisLegacy #YearOfMercy #PopeReformer #PopeFrancisHope #CatholicFaith #PapalFuneral #CatholicTradition #VaticanHistory #StMaryMajor #HolyFather #CatholicFaith #Papacy #RomanBasilicas