As Pope Francis, 88, remains critically ill in a Rome hospital due to a severe lung infection and other complications, Catholics around the world are preparing for what could be the end of his papacy. While his doctors have reported slight improvements, his age and medical history make his condition uncertain. If Pope Francis were to pass away, the Catholic Church would follow a centuries-old process designed to ensure an orderly transition of power. From the confirmation of his death to the election of a new pope, every step is carefully structured.
Confirmation of Death
When a pope dies, his death is officially confirmed by a Vatican doctor and the Camerlengo (Cardinal Chamberlain), who temporarily takes charge of the church’s administration. Historically, the Camerlengo would tap the pope’s forehead with a small silver hammer and call his name three times to ensure he was truly deceased. While this ritual is no longer followed, the Camerlengo still plays a crucial role. His immediate duties include securing the pope’s private apartments, destroying the Fisherman’s Ring to prevent forgery, and beginning the process of planning for the funeral and the election of a new pope.
Lying in State and Funeral Preparations
After death is confirmed, the pope’s body is dressed in traditional white papal garments and placed in a wooden coffin lined with zinc. In the past, popes were displayed for viewing in the Apostolic Palace, but Pope Francis has simplified this tradition. Instead, his body would be taken directly to St. Peter’s Basilica, where the public can pay their respects. The funeral takes place between four and six days after death. Unlike previous popes, who were buried in three nested coffins, Francis has decreed that he will be buried in a single wooden coffin lined with zinc. He has also requested burial in St. Mary Major Basilica rather than the traditional tombs in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Funeral Ceremony
A special document, known as the rogito, summarizing the pope’s life and papacy, is placed inside the coffin along with coins minted during his time as pope. The coffin is closed the night before the funeral, and his face is covered with a white silk veil. The pope’s funeral is one of the most solemn and significant events in the Catholic Church, attended by world leaders, religious figures, and thousands of mourners. The funeral mass is traditionally led by the Dean of the College of Cardinals and takes place in St. Peter’s Square.
The Period of Sede Vacante
From the moment the pope dies until a new one is elected, the Catholic Church enters a period called Sede Vacante (Latin for “the seat is vacant”). During this time, the College of Cardinals oversees the Vatican but cannot make major decisions. The governance of the church is limited to essential functions, and preparations begin for the election of the next pope. This period lasts anywhere from 15 to 20 days, allowing cardinals from around the world to travel to Rome for the conclave.
The Conclave: Electing a New Pope
The election of a new pope takes place in a highly secretive gathering called the Conclave, which is held in the Sistine Chapel. Only cardinals under 80 years old can vote. The process follows strict rules to ensure fairness and prevent outside influence. Before voting begins, each cardinal swears an oath of secrecy. Multiple rounds of voting take place, and a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority to be elected. If no decision is reached, black smoke is released from a chimney above the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the public that the voting is still ongoing.
The White Smoke: A New Pope is Chosen
Once a new pope is chosen, white smoke is released from the Sistine Chapel, signaling that a decision has been made. The newly elected pope is then asked whether he accepts the role. If he agrees, he chooses a new papal name and is dressed in white. He is then introduced to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where a senior cardinal proclaims the famous words: “Habemus Papam”—“We have a pope.” This marks the official beginning of a new papacy and ensures the continuation of the Catholic Church’s leadership.