Pope Francis will be buried with a special document called a Rogito, a tradition in the Catholic Church. Written in Ecclesiastical Latin and sealed in a metal cylinder, it recounts the life of the 266th pope, describing him as a “simple and much-loved shepherd.”
The Rogito highlights Francis’ early life in Buenos Aires, his time as Archbishop traveling by bus and cooking for himself, and his commitment to helping the poor. Elected in 2013 after Benedict XVI’s resignation, Francis chose his name to honor Saint Francis of Assisi and lived modestly, staying at Domus Sanctae Marthae instead of the Apostolic Palace.

“He exercised the Petrine ministry with untiring dedication in favor of dialogue with Muslims and representatives of other religions,” the Rogito states.
Francis’ simple burial request includes a zinc-lined wooden coffin, not the traditional three coffins. After his funeral at St. Peter’s Square, he will be laid to rest at St. Mary Major Basilica, fulfilling his wish for a humble resting place.

“Francis left to all a marvellous witness of humanity, of holy living, and of universal fatherhood,” the Rogito concludes.