ROME. Pope Francis has declared his preference to be buried in the Rome basilica of St. Mary Major, a departure from the customary resting place in the Vatican grottoes, expressing a desire to be in proximity to his cherished icon of the Madonna.
Turning 87 on Sunday, Francis dismissed thoughts of resignation despite facing multiple health scares. Confirming a trip to Belgium next year and considering visits to Polynesia and Argentina, he acknowledged the reevaluation of travel plans based on proximity.
In an interview with N+ of Mexican broadcaster Televisa, Francis stated, “It is true that all journeys are now rethought. If they’re close by, they can be done. If they’re farther away, they are rethought. There are limits.” This interview marks his first since recovering from acute bronchitis, which led to the cancellation of a trip to the U.N. climate conference in Dubai.
While affirming the lifelong role of the Pope, Francis reiterated the possibility of resignation, emphasizing the need to prepare for any circumstance. “I ask the Lord to say enough, at some point, but when he wants me to,” he said.
Discussing his potential retirement, Francis expressed a desire to live outside the Vatican in Rome, maintaining a connection to his role as the bishop of Rome and his devotion to an icon of the Virgin Mary in the St. Mary Major basilica.
Sharing his devotion, Francis said, “It’s my great devotion,” revealing his decision to be buried near the basilica, stating, “The place is already prepared.”
Despite health challenges this year, including bronchitis and hospitalization for abdominal surgery, Francis remains determined. Using a wheelchair and cane due to strained knee ligaments, he stands firm in his decisions.
Contrary to the tradition of popes being buried in the grottos of St. Peter’s Basilica, Francis has chosen an unconventional path.
Regarding travel plans, Francis confirmed a pending trip to his native Argentina, invited by the country’s new president, Javier Milei. Addressing past criticisms, Francis, who engaged in a conversation with Milei after his election, exhibited forgiveness.
“In an election campaign, things are said ‘in jest’ — they are said seriously, but they are provisional things, things that are used to create a bit of attention, but which later fall away by themselves,” Francis remarked, urging a distinction between campaign rhetoric and post-election actions.
Francis’ scheduled visit to Belgium, marking the 600th anniversary of the country’s main Catholic universities, has been welcomed by Belgium’s bishops. The details, including the duration of his stay, are yet to be determined.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
