When a pope dies, the Catholic Church enters a carefully regulated transition process known as sede vacante ("the seat being vacant"). Here is what happens step-by-step:
Confirmation and Immediate Actions
- The pope’s death is first confirmed medically, then officially by the Camerlengo (currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell). Traditionally, the Camerlengo calls out the pope’s baptismal name three times to confirm death, a ritual now symbolic rather than practical
- The Camerlengo then destroys the pope’s Fisherman’s Ring, which symbolizes the end of the pope’s authority and prevents misuse of the seal
- The papal apartments are sealed to protect the pope’s possessions and mark the end of his reign
Mourning Period and Funeral
- The Vatican enters a nine-day mourning period called the Novendiales during which special Masses and prayers are held worldwide
- The pope’s body lies in state, typically in St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the public and dignitaries to pay respects
- The pope must be buried between the fourth and sixth day after death. For example, Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major instead of St. Peter’s Basilica, as per his wishes
- The funeral is a major event attended by world leaders and thousands of faithful, held in St. Peter’s Square or Basilica
Interregnum and Election of a New Pope
- During the sede vacante , the College of Cardinals assumes temporary leadership but cannot make major decisions
- About 15 to 20 days after the pope’s death, the College of Cardinals under age 80 convenes in the Sistine Chapel for the conclave, a secret ballot to elect the new pope
- A two-thirds majority is required to elect the new pontiff
- The conclave is steeped in tradition and secrecy, culminating in the appearance of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney to signal the election of a new pope
Summary
- Death confirmed by medical and Camerlengo.
- Fisherman’s Ring destroyed; papal apartments sealed.
- Nine days of mourning with public viewing.
- Funeral held 4-6 days after death.
- Cardinals gather for conclave 15-20 days later.
- New pope elected by two-thirds vote.
This process ensures an orderly and solemn transition of leadership in the Catholic Church following the death of a pope
