Transition at the Vatican: Rituals and procedures following Pope's death
The death of the pope triggers a series of carefully planned procedures meant to both honour the deceased leader of the Church and prepare the Holy See for selecting his successor. What exactly does this process look like, and who is responsible for it?
At the age of 88, Pope Francis passed away, the Vatican reported. Jorge Mario Bergoglio had led the Catholic Church since March 13, 2013.
Declaration of death and initial steps
After the pope's death, official confirmation of the death is the responsibility of doctors, and then the procedure is led by the Camerlengo Cardinal, who is the interim administrator of the Vatican during the sede vacante (the vacancy of the Holy See). Traditionally, the Camerlengo confirms the pope's death by pronouncing his name and gently tapping his forehead with a silver hammer.
The next step is the sealing of the papal private apartments, which symbolizes the end of his pontificate. The Camerlengo Cardinal also assumes management of the Vatican's assets, and the College of Cardinals begins preparations to choose the new pope.
Public viewing of the pope's body
After the confirmation of the pope's death, his body is dressed in papal liturgical garments—traditionally a white cassock and red cloak. It is then entrusted to the Canons of St. Peter's Basilica, who perform the ritual preparation of the body.
Until now, the body of each deceased pope was displayed in St. Peter's Basilica. Francis changed this procedure. His body will not be displayed publicly after death but will be placed directly in a coffin. The funeral ceremonies are expected to take place between the fourth and sixth day after death.
Symbolic destruction of the Fisherman's Ring
One of the most characteristic rituals after the pope's death is the destruction of the Fisherman's Ring, which the deceased Holy Father used to seal important documents.
The Camerlengo Cardinal performs the symbolic act of cutting the ring with a silver hammer to prevent its further use. This tradition aims to prevent any possible forgery of documents after the pope's death.
Funeral and burial of the pope
The funeral ceremonies will consist of three main stages:
- Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Peter's Square, attended by world leaders and thousands of faithful.
- Interment of the body in a double coffin—first in a zinc coffin, followed by a wooden one.
- Burial in the crypt of St. Peter's Basilica or another place chosen by the pope before his death.
Coins minted during his pontificate and a special document called the Rogito, containing the most important information about his life and achievements, are placed in the coffin.
Mourning period and preparations for the conclave
After the funeral, a nine-day mourning period called novendiales begins, during which daily mourning masses are celebrated for the soul of the deceased pope.
During this time, the College of Cardinals prepares for the conclave, which is the selection of the new pope. They will decide who will become the next successor of St. Peter and assume office as the new leader of the Catholic Church.
The death of a pope is not only a time of mourning for the entire Church but also a period of transition and reorganization. Centuries-old tradition and strict procedures ensure that the Vatican maintains order and continuity of power, providing stability at one of the most critical moments for the Catholic Church.
