"Pope Francis Chooses Basilica of St. Mary Major for Final Resting Place, Bypassing Vatican"

Pope Francis has revealed in an interview that he has made arrangements to be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, expressing his devotion to the church. While recovering from severe bronchitis, the pope acknowledges his declining capabilities due to old age and rethinks overseas trips. He affirms his belief that the papacy is a position held until death and waits for God to decide when his reign should end. Unlike his predecessors, Pope Francis has chosen not to be buried in the grotto under St. Peter's Basilica, opting for a more personal connection with the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where he frequently prays.