Pope Francis, who died on Monday (April 21) at the age of 88, will not be buried at the Vatican, breaking with custom.

Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Holy Father of the Roman Catholic Church, has been sick recently.

Pope Francis was transported to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital in February after contracting a respiratory infection, chronic bronchitis, which progressed to pneumonia in both lungs, and minor renal failure.

He suffered a ‘single incidence of bronchospasm, which prompted an episode of vomiting with inhalation and a dramatic deterioration of his respiratory state.’ earlier this month.

The Vatican stated on Monday (April 21) that Pope Francis died at 7:35 a.m. local time.

Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell remarked, “Dearest brothers and sisters, with great sadness, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35 a.m. today, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the Father’s residence.

“He committed his entire life to serving the Lord and his Church.

“He taught us to embody the Gospel ideals of fidelity, bravery, and universal love, particularly for the poorest and most disadvantaged.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend Pope Francis’ soul to the infinite and merciful love of God, One and Tribune.”

In a 2023 interview with Mexican channel N+, Pope Francis indicated that he will defy convention and be placed to rest in Rome’s Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica.

Traditionally, popes are buried in the grottoes under St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, but Francis chose to be buried where he went to pray before and after journeys abroad.

“The location has already been prepared.” I want to be buried in St. Mary Major,” Pope Francis declared in 2023, adding that he was deeply attached to the Byzantine Icon of Our Lady, Protectress of the Roman People.

Francis was the first pope to be born or reared outside of Europe since the Syrian Pope Gregory III, who lived over 1,200 years ago.

Francis, born in Argentina, was hailed throughout his life for his progressive attitude and humility, as he was frequently heard discussing the conflict in Ukraine and the refugee problem.

During his tenure as Pope, Francis addressed issues such as the ongoing climate crisis, global injustice, and LGBTQ+ rights.

In the United Kingdom, King Charles and the Queen were most genuinely sorry’ to learn of the Pope’s death and ‘were immensely touched to have been able to visit him earlier in the month.’

Charles and Camilla paid a visit to the Pope at the Vatican on April 9, the day the royal couple celebrated their twentieth wedding anniversary.

The King stated, “Through his work and concern for both people and the planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.” The Queen and I recall with fondness our visits with His Holiness throughout the years, and we were deeply moved to be able to see him earlier in the month.”