Special meaning behind Pope

Pope Francis, who served as pope for over a decade, passed away peacefully at age 88 in Saint Martha House, Vatican City, on Monday. His death was announced by Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who praised Francis’ devotion to the Church and his example of faith, courage, and compassion. Following a public funeral attended by around 250,000 people in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis was laid to rest privately in the Basilica of St Mary Major, honoring his wish to be buried there rather than at the traditional site beneath St Peter’s Basilica.

Photos of his simple tomb have since been released, showing a modest white stone inscribed with “Franciscus” and a single white rose placed upon it. A warm light and a reproduction of his pectoral cross adorn the site. Pope Francis had requested a humble burial to emphasize devotion to the Virgin Mary rather than to himself. Faithful visitors have already begun paying their respects, with the late pontiff’s simplicity and humility reflected clearly in his final resting place.