'May not make it..': Pope Francis's funeral rehearsals reportedly underway
What's the story
The funeral of Pope Francis is reportedly being rehearsed after the 88-year-old expressed concern that he may not be able to "make it this time."
The pope is currently fighting severe pneumonia and asthmatic bronchitis at Rome's Gemelli hospital.
His health concerns have worsened after a follow-up chest CT scan showed the onset of pneumonia. Doctors have since ramped up his treatment with corticosteroid antibiotics.
Succession preparations
Swiss Guard under curfew, Pope expresses survival concerns
Amid these health challenges, Vatican sources say preparations for potential succession planning are underway with the Swiss Guard rehearsing protocols for a possible papal funeral.
The Pope's security, the Swiss Guard, have been placed under a curfew as they conduct protocol drills for the Pontiff's possible passing.
Politico reported that Pope Francis has privately told his close aides that he "may not survive" this illness.
Rites revision
Pope Francis approves revisions to papal funeral rites
When a pope dies, mourners practice the rite of novemdiales, which is nine days of suffrage Masses for the late pope.
But last year, Pope Francis had approved changes to the papal funeral rites.
The revised liturgical book simplifies the rituals and permits burial outside the Vatican, focusing on his identity as a bishop and not a powerful figure.
Since his election in 2013, he has stressed on humility and service to the "church of the poor."
Burial decision
Pope Francis chooses burial site, Vatican monitors health
In a 2023 interview, Francis also disclosed that he wants to be buried at Rome's Santa Maria Maggiore basilica instead of the grottoes beneath St. Peter's Basilica, where most popes are buried.
Vatican's master of liturgical ceremonies, Monsignor Diego, said the reform simplifies burial ceremonies, including eliminating the need to display the pope on an elevated bier in St. Peter's Basilica.
He will be displayed in a modest casket, not the traditional three coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak.