Confirmation of the Pope’s passing
The Camerlengo, a high-ranking Vatican official, has historically been responsible for verifying the pope’s demise. Typically, this official, who is now Cardinal Kevin Farrell, would approach the deceased pontiff, utter his name three times, and then pronounce him dead if he fails to respond. Doctors formally verify the death through medical examination, despite the fact that this ceremony is more symbolic today.
The burning of the pope’s Fisherman’s Ring, or signet ring, which served as the seal on official papal documents, is one of the first posthumous acts. This obstructs the issuance of any additional documents in the name of the deceased pontiff. The papal apartments within the Apostolic Palace are also closed until a new pontiff is selected.
Nine Days of Rituals: The Mourning Period
A nine-day period of mourning, known as Novendiale, is observed following the demise of the pope. A national mourning period is typically announced by the Vatican and Italy.
The pope’s body is prepared for public inspection during this time. In the past, Popes were embalmed, and some of their organs were removed and preserved as sacrosanct relics. Nevertheless, these practices have declined in frequency in recent years.
The late pontiff is draped in full papal regalia and placed on St. Peter’s Basilica, where thousands of mourners, including world leaders and Catholic clergy, attend to offer their condolences.
What is the location of the Pope’s burial?
The Vatican Grottoes, located beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, are the final resting place of the majority of popes, in addition to their progenitors. However, Pope Francis has expressed his desire to be interred in the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome, making him the first pope in a century to be interred outside the Vatican.
Historically, the corpse of a pope is encased in three nested coffins:
A cypress sarcophagus, which represents humility, A lead coffin that encases the body and contains a scroll (rogito) that provides a concise account of the pope’s life and tenure. The final outer shell is a coffin made of oak or elm.
However, Pope Francis simplified papal funerals in 2024 by utilizing a single wooden sarcophagus.
The College of Cardinals, a group of senior Catholic officials, convene in the Sistine Chapel 15 to 20 days after the pontiff’s funeral to elect a new pope.
The voting process, or conclave, is governed by rigorous tradition:
- Voting privileges are restricted to cardinals under the age of 80.
- The cardinals are sealed into the Sistine Chapel and vow a secret oath until the election of a new pope.
- Secret ballots are utilized for voting. The new pope must be elected by a two-thirds majority.
- In the event that no candidate receives the necessary number of votes, the ballots are incinerated with a chemical that produces black fumes, signaling to the world that no decision has been made.
- Once a new pontiff is elected, the ballots are incinerated with an additional chemical, which produces white smoke, signifying a successful election.
Who Will Be the Next Pope?
There are no recognized candidates for the position, and cardinals refrain from conducting campaigns. However, Vatican analysts frequently refer to “papabile,” or cardinals who are anticipated to succeed. The election can be conducted within hours or weeks; for instance, one conclave in the 13th century lasted nearly three years.
The New Pope: “Habemus Papam” Publicity
The new pontiff typically chooses a papal name that is derived from a saint or predecessor upon being elected. A prelate then emerges from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and declares, “Habemus Papam” (We have a pope).
The new pontiff also addresses the public for the first time and bestows blessings upon them. This marks the commencement of his papacy, during which he will serve as a spiritual leader to the world and establish the teachings of the Catholic Church.
The passing of a pontiff is a grave and highly symbolic event that is followed by centuries-old rituals. Millions worldwide will witness Pope Francis’ funeral and the selection of his successor in the event of his death. His successor will assume responsibility for the affairs of 1.3 billion Catholics, which will grant him or her significant influence over global religious, political, and humanitarian concerns.
