What happens when a pope dies?

With the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church enters the “sede vacante” — Latin for “the seat being vacant.” This solemn period marks the time between a pope’s death and the election of his successor, governed by centuries-old tradition and specific Church laws.

The Role of the Camerlengo

The main figure during the sede vacante is the Camerlengo, currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell, appointed by Pope Francis in 2019. As outlined in the Church’s apostolic constitutions — Praedicate Evangelium (2022) and Universi Dominici Gregis (1996) — the camerlengo plays a key role in managing Church affairs until a new pope is elected.

Duties of the Camerlengo include:

• Officially confirming the pope’s death

• Breaking the Fisherman’s Ring, symbolizing the end of the pontificate

• Sealing the pope’s residence and private quarters

• Informing the Diocese of Rome and the Vatican of the pope’s death

• Arranging the funeral and burial, in consultation with the College of Cardinals

In Francis’ case, the Casa Santa Marta — not the Apostolic Palace — must be sealed, as that was his chosen residence since 2013.

Funeral and Burial Changes

Pope Francis revised papal funeral rites during his lifetime. Key changes include:

• The pope’s body will rest in a simple wooden coffin with a zinc lining

• His face will be covered with a silk veil

• The funeral, or “Missa Poenitentialis,” will be held in St. Peter’s Basilica or St. Peter’s Square, attended by delegations from around the world

• No embalming or removal of internal organs, a practice abolished by Pope Pius X

• Only authorized photographs of the pope in pontifical robes may be taken

No "Vice Pope"

The camerlengo does not take on papal authority. Instead, he oversees day-to-day operations with help from three assigned cardinals, maintaining communication with the College of Cardinals.

All officials of the Roman Curia — including the Secretary of State have vacated their posts, except a few: the camerlengo, the major penitentiary, the papal almoner, the cardinal vicars, and the dean of the College of Cardinals.

Next Steps: The Conclave

Within 20 days of the pope’s death, eligible cardinals under the age of 80 gather for the conclave, where they will elect the next pope. The process takes place under intense secrecy within the Sistine Chapel.

As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, the Church now prepares to choose a new shepherd — one who will guide the global Catholic community into a new chapter.