Introduction
This article outlines the procedures that will take place within the Roman Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis, announced by the Vatican on Monday. These rituals mark the end of one papacy and the beginning of another.
The Role of the Camerlengo
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Papal Camerlengo, confirms Pope Francis’ death and seals his private quarters, preparing for the funeral. The Camerlengo and three assistants decide when to transport the Pope’s body to St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing.
- Securing the Papal Ring and Seal: The Camerlengo ensures that Pope Francis’ ring, known as the “Fisherman’s Ring,” and his lead seal are destroyed to prevent their use by anyone else.
- No Autopsy: In line with traditional practices, no autopsy is performed.
Mourning rituals last for nine days, and the date of the funeral and burial is determined by the cardinals. Typically, the funeral occurs four to six days after death in St. Peter’s Square.
Pope Francis had previously expressed his wish to be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, rather than in the crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, and requested a simple wooden coffin.
Administrative Pause
During the interregnum, the College of Cardinals oversees daily affairs, though its power is limited. Much of the central administration of the Church effectively halts.
The Conclave
Approximately 15 to 20 days following Pope Francis’ death, the conclave to elect a new pope commences in the Sistine Chapel within the Vatican. Cardinals, confined to the Vatican during this period, decide on the exact date.
- Eligible Voters: Cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to participate in the secret ballot.
- Two-Thirds Majority: A two-thirds majority plus one vote is required to elect the new pope, which may result in multiple rounds of voting over several days.
Once the election concludes, the newly elected pope is asked if they accept the position and what name they wish to take.
Announcement of the New Pope
The world learns of a new pope’s election when a senior church official, using chemical products, produces white smoke from the chapel’s chimney to signal the successful vote. Black smoke, created with different chemicals, indicates an inconclusive ballot.
Dean of the College of Cardinals steps onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to announce “Habemus Papam” (We have a Pope), after which the new pope appears and offers a blessing to the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
