The Vatican on Monday confirmed the passing of Pope Francis, triggering a centuries-old sequence of sacred rites and protocols designed to mark the end of a papacy and prepare for the selection of a new Pope.
With the death of the Pontiff, the Catholic Church has now entered the Sede Vacante—Latin for “the seat being vacant”—a transitional period during which the Church is without a spiritual leader. This phase ends only when a new Pope is elected.
Under canon law, a Pope’s position is generally lifelong. However, the office can be vacated through death or voluntary resignation, as was the case with Pope Benedict XVI in 2013. There is no legal framework to remove a Pope, which has presented challenges in history, particularly during times of severe illness.
Confirming the Pope’s Death
The process begins with a doctor officially confirming the Pope’s death. However, only the Camerlengo—currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell—can declare it to the Church. He begins by calling the Pope’s baptismal name, “Jorge Mario Bergoglio,” three times. Upon receiving no response, he makes the death official.
Rites of Transition Begin
The Camerlengo then embarks on a meticulous and symbolic series of actions, guided by a 400-page document titled Funeral Rites of the Roman Pontiff.
One of the most notable is the ceremonial destruction of the Pope’s “Fisherman’s Ring.” Traditionally used to seal official documents, its destruction ensures no documents are forged in the Pope’s name after his passing. Today, the act is largely symbolic, marking the end of papal authority.
Next, the Pope’s private apartments are sealed—a historic measure originally intended to prevent looting.
Mourning and Funeral
The bell of St. Peter’s Basilica rings out once for every year of the Pope’s life, marking his death to the world.
In 2005, the bell tolled 84 times for Pope John Paul II. The Vatican will now organize funeral rites, drawing global leaders, clergy, and millions of faithful in mourning.
Preparing for the Next Pope
As per tradition, the College of Cardinals will convene a Conclave to elect a new Pope. This sacred meeting, held in the Sistine Chapel, will remain sealed from the outside world until a successor is chosen.
Until then, the throne of St. Peter remains symbolically empty
