Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88. His death marks the beginning of a significant chapter in the life of the Church, filled with tradition, reflection, and decisions that will shape its future.
Sede Vacante
Once a pope dies, the Vatican enters a special phase called sede vacante (Latin for "the seat is vacant"). During this time, the Church pauses most of its usual activities as preparations are made for the election of a new pope. The camerlengo, currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell, steps in to handle basic administrative duties. He confirms the Pope’s death, seals his private rooms, and gets things in order for what comes next.
Another symbolic gesture also happens. The Pope’s Fisherman’s Ring and official lead seal are destroyed to prevent any documents from being falsely issued in his name.
The Nine Days of Mourning
The Church observes a nine-day mourning period known as novendiale (Latin for "nine days"). During this time, Pope Francis’s body will lie in state inside St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the public to pay their respects. His funeral is expected to happen between the fourth and sixth day, held in the vast St. Peter’s Square.
Pope Francis had previously said he wanted to be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, one of Rome’s most significant churches, close to an image of the Virgin Mary that he often visited: Salus Populi Romani (Protector of the Roman People).
How the Next Pope is Chosen
Between 15 to 20 days after the Pope’s death, cardinals under the age of 80, currently 135 in total, will gather in Vatican City for what’s called a conclave (Latin for "with a key"). It’s a secretive process held inside the Sistine Chapel, the same chapel with Michelangelo’s famous ceiling.
The cardinals vote up to four times each day. It takes a two-thirds majority for a new pope to be elected. After each round of voting, the ballots are burned. Black smoke means no decision yet, while white smoke means a new pope has been chosen.
Who Might Be the Next Pope?
While no one knows for sure who the next pope will be, a few names are getting attention.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi from Italy is being talked about a lot. He is seen as someone who shares Francis’s more modern views. Another possibility is Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines, although his profile isn’t as high as it used to be.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, is also being mentioned, along with Cardinal Peter Erdo from Hungary, who is known to take a more conservative approach.
The Big Moment: Habemus Papam
Once a new pope is elected and agrees to take on the role, he steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. That’s when the world hears the famous Latin words: Habemus Papam (We have a pope). He then gives his first public blessing, marking the beginning of a new era for the Catholic Church.
What Comes Next?
Right now, the Church is in mourning. Soon, all eyes will be on Vatican City as the cardinals prepare for one of the most sacred duties in their faith. They will be choosing the next spiritual leader for over a billion Catholics around the world.
