Farewell to Pope Francis: Tradition and transition in Vatican
The death of the pope triggers a series of meticulously prepared procedures designed both to honour the deceased leader of the Church and to ready the Holy See for the selection of his successor. What exactly does this process entail, and who is responsible for it?
At the age of 88, Pope Francis passed away, the Vatican announced. Jorge Mario Bergoglio had led the Catholic Church since 13th March 2013.
Declaration of death and initial steps
After the pope's passing, the official confirmation of the death falls to the doctors, and then the procedure is led by the Camerlengo Cardinal, who serves as 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, symbolising the end of his pontificate. The Camerlengo Cardinal also assumes management of the Vatican's assets, while the College of Cardinals begins preparations to elect the new pope.
Public viewing of the pope's body
Following 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 carry out the ritual preparation of the body.
Previously, the body of each deceased pope was displayed in St. Peter's Basilica. However, Francis altered this procedure. His body will not be displayed publicly after death but will be placed directly in a coffin. The pope's funeral ceremonies are to occur between the fourth and sixth day after death.
Symbolic destruction of the Fisherman's Ring
One of the most distinctive rituals following the pope's death is the destruction of the Fisherman's Ring, which the deceased pontiff used to seal significant 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 potential forgery of documents after the pope's passing.
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 location chosen by the pope prior to his death.
Coins minted during his pontificate and a special document called the Rogito, detailing 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 commences, during which daily mourning masses are celebrated for the soul of the deceased pope.
During this period, 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 reorganisation. Centuries-old tradition and strict procedures ensure that the Vatican maintains order and continuity of power, providing stability at one of the most crucial moments for the Catholic Church.
