Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, will be remembered as a pope who broke traditions and embraced humility. He was a Pope of many firsts, too. Ever since he exited the 2013 conclave as a pope, he has made history in ways that are both symbolic and substantial.

From the beginning of his reign, he was succeeding a pope who had resigned (Pope Benedict XVI) in 2013. This was the first time since the 15th Century that a pontiff had resigned. For the first time in over six centuries, until 2022 when Benedict XVI died, we had both a pope and a pope emeritus.

The archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina, became the first pope from South America and also the first Jesuit to raise to papacy. He was also the first pope to adopt the name ‘Francis’ after St Francis of Assisi symbolising a commitment to simplicity, care for the poor and concern for the environment.

Remaining grounded

Unlike his predecessors, Pope Francis chose to live in the modest Vatican guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace. His simple lifestyle and rejection of opulence reflected his deep-rooted humility.

He often mingled with the public, washed the feet of prisoners and refugees, and used his platform to advocate for social justice, environmental responsibility, and inclusion of marginalised groups.

In keeping with character, Pope Francis broke from tradition in planning his burial. After the morning funeral mass at St Peter’s the pope’ coffin will be taken to Rome and he will be entombed at the Basilica of St Mary Major. This move will make him the first pope to be buried outside the Vatican in over a century.

Reports indicate he has requested a simple resting place instead of the grand tombs typically reserved for popes as a final act of humility. Unlike his predecessors, Francis will be buried in a single coffin made of wood and lined with zinc.

Pope Francis, funeral will not the only way he will be breaking with tradition but he also used his authority to simplify burial rites for future popes. He left specific instructions to pare down his own.