Introduction to the Camerlengo’s Responsibilities
Following the death of Pope Francis, managing Vatican affairs will temporarily fall to the cardinal camerlengo while nine days of funeral rites are conducted and a 15 to 20-day period is allowed for organizing a conclave to elect the new pope.
The Camerlengo’s Interim Role
The cardinal camerlengo will act as an “interim pope,” responsible for administering the Church until a new pontiff is chosen, though with limited powers.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell: The Current Camerlengo
The 77-year-old Irish cardinal, Kevin Farrell, was chosen for this position in February 2019.
Resignation of High-Ranking Church Officials
All top church officials, known as the Curia Romana, must resign their positions upon the pope’s death, leaving only the cardinal camerlengo to handle day-to-day church affairs.
The Origin and Importance of the Camerlengo’s Role
The term “camerlengo” comes from the Italian word “camera,” meaning “chamber.” This administrative role gains significance when a pope dies.
The camerlengo oversees Vatican administration and, with the help of present cardinals (gathered in the “Congregation”), sets the date for funeral rites and conclave convening.
Limited Powers of the Camerlengo
The camerlengo and cardinals cannot make decisions with validity beyond the vacant Peter’s chair period or infringe on papal exclusive prerogatives, such as cardinal appointments.
Confirming the Pope’s Death
Historically, until Pius XII’s death in 1958, the camerlengo confirmed a pope’s demise by striking his forehead with a small silver hammer to ensure the supreme pontiff was indeed deceased.
Symbolic Possession of Papal Assets
The camerlengo symbolically takes possession of papal properties, including the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, the Roman palaces (seat of the Rome diocese), and Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of popes.
Camerlengo’s Additional Responsibilities
The camerlengo convenes cardinal meetings, known as “Congregations,” which decide the deceased pope’s exposure day, burial date (within four to six days post-death), and nine-day mourning ceremonies organization.
They also establish the conclave’s start date for electing a new pope, which must commence no earlier than 15 days and no later than 20 days following the pope’s death.
Funeral Location
Traditionally, funerals occur at St. Peter’s Basilica, unless contrary testamentary wishes exist. Pope Francis announced in late 2023 his preference to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in Rome, outside Vatican City.
Juan Pablo II’s Constitution on Papal Vacancy
John Paul II promulgated the apostolic constitution “Universi Dominici Gregis” on February 22, 1996, addressing the papal vacancy and Roman pontiff selection. It sets all timelines for events following a pope’s death.
