When a Pope Dies: What happens when a Pope Dies

By JC Reardon

When a Pope dies, the Vatican follows a specific and well-established procedure, known as the Sede Vacante (Latin for "vacant seat"). Here's what happens step by step:

1. Confirmation of Death

The Camerlengo (Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church) is responsible for officially confirming the Pope's death.

Traditionally, he would gently tap the Pope's forehead three times with a small silver hammer while calling his name. Though this is no longer practiced, the confirmation is still done through medical examination.

The Camerlengo then notifies the Dean of the College of Cardinals.

2. Official Announcement

The Vatican formally announces the Pope's death to the world.

Bells ring in mourning, and flags fly at half-mast.

3. Destruction of the Fisherman's Ring

The Pope's Fisherman's Ring (a symbol of his authority) is destroyed with a hammer to prevent forgery of papal documents.

4. Nine Days of Mourning (Novemdiales)

A period of mourning begins, lasting for nine days.

During this time, solemn Masses and prayers are held.

5. Funeral and Burial

The Pope's funeral usually takes place within 4 to 6 days.

He is buried in St. Peter's Basilica or another designated resting place.

6. Sede Vacante (The Papal Vacancy)

Until a new Pope is elected, the Vatican is run by the Camerlengo and the College of Cardinals, but they cannot make major decisions.

7. The Conclave (Election of a New Pope)

A conclave (meeting of cardinals) is called, usually within 15-20 days.

Cardinals under the age of 80 vote in secrecy inside the Sistine Chapel.

They continue voting until one candidate receives a two-thirds majority.

White smoke from the chapel signals a successful election; black smoke means no decision yet.

8. Announcement of the New Pope

Once a Pope is elected, he chooses his new papal name.

The Protodeacon Cardinal announces "Habemus Papam" ("We have a Pope").

The new Pope then appears on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to give his first blessing, Urbi et Orbi.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0DYDX62P5
• ISBN13: 9798312109429
• Release Date: February 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 248 Pages
• Weight: 0.74 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.0" x 9.0"