The Tradition Behind 3 Coffins in Pope Francis's Burials
The burial of popes in three coffins is a centuries-old tradition rich in symbolism. Each coffin represents a different aspect of the Pope’s life and legacy:
The burial of popes has been a centuries-old tradition filled with symbolism, reverence, and rituals. This practice reflects the Catholic Church’s deep respect for the papal office and its role in guiding the global Catholic community.
The Significance of the Three Coffins
Traditionally, a pope’s burial involves three separate coffins, each with its own significance. The first coffin, made of cypress wood, symbolises eternal life and humility. The cypress tree, being an evergreen, represents the Pope’s soul continuing to live on. This coffin is also a reflection of evangelical poverty, echoing the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi.
The second coffin, made of lead, represents the firmness of doctrine and the immortality of the Pope’s legacy. Important documents, such as the Pope’s last will and a brief biography of his pontificate, are placed inside this coffin. The use of lead, a long-lasting metal, signifies that the Pope’s teachings will endure through time as part of the living tradition of the Church.
The third coffin, made of noble wood like oak or walnut, represents human dignity. This outer coffin is visible during the funeral rites and symbolises the reverence due to the body, which is considered the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Pope Francis’s Departure from Tradition
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis requested a simple burial in a plain wooden coffin lined with zinc. This decision reflects his values of humility and simplicity, which defined his papacy. Pope Francis lived modestly, choosing to reside in the Vatican’s Santa Marta guesthouse instead of the grand Apostolic Palace. He also favoured simple clothing and transportation, often opting for compact cars over limousines.
Consistent with his humble approach to life, Pope Francis did not wish for his burial to be marked by pomp or grandeur. He also requested to be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, rather than beneath St Peter’s Basilica, where many of his predecessors are laid to rest.
The Legacy of Pope Francis
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, due to a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure. His burial will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Despite the tradition surrounding papal burials, Pope Francis’s choice of a simple funeral reflects his dedication to humility and service, values that will continue to inspire the Catholic community and beyond.
