Pope Francis burial plans differ drastically from his predecessors

Pope Francis’ death has set off a centuries-old orchestrated series of events to honor his life and legacy, though the funeral for the 266th pope will likely differ drastically from those of his predecessors.The beloved pontiff, who died on Monday at 88 following a lengthy battle of double pneumonia, made changes to his funeral rites last year that underscore his humility while ditching the traditional pomp and circumstance.

Typically, papal funerals are held four to six days after the death in St.Peter’s Square, however, Francis had said that, unlike his predecessors, he would not be laid to rest in the crypt of St.

Peter’s Basilica.Instead, he opted to be buried in Rome’s St.

Mary Major Basilica.He also chose a simple wooden casket, a far cry from his predecessors who would be laid to rest in three interlocking caskets made of cypress, lead and oak.

The date of his funeral has not yet been announced.Read more about the life of Pope FrancisThe conclave to elect a new pope begins in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel between 15 and 20 days after the pope’s death at the behest of a secret ballot.Cardinals need at least two-thirds plus one to elect the new pope, meaning voting can take several days before a new pope is chosen.

With Post wires....