Pope Francis’ Passing: Understanding the Rituals and the Road to a New Leader

What Happens After Pope Francis Dies?

When a pope dies, there are special steps and traditions that the Catholic Church follows. Here’s what happens after Pope Francis passes away.

How Do People Know the Pope Has Died?

First, a doctor from the Vatican checks the Pope and confirms that he has died. Then, a special church official called the camerlengo (pronounced “cam-er-LEN-go”) makes the official announcement. The camerlengo says the Pope’s real name three times. When there is no answer, he declares that the Pope is dead.

What Happens to the Pope’s Body?

The Pope’s body is dressed in special church clothes—first white, then red. These clothes show his role as the leader of the Church. Pope Francis asked for a simple wooden coffin, which is different from the three-layer coffins used in the past.

The body is placed in a chapel for prayers. People can come to say goodbye and pray for him. The body is not shown on a big platform, but in a more private way, as Pope Francis wanted.

The Funeral and Burial

The funeral takes place in St. Peter’s Basilica, the big church in the Vatican. There are special prayers and ceremonies. The night before the funeral, the coffin is closed and sealed.

Pope Francis asked to be buried in a church called St. Mary Major in Rome, not inside the Vatican. This is unusual, but it matches his wish for a simple burial.

Mourning and Saying Goodbye

For nine days, there are prayers and church services for the Pope. This time is called novemdiales (pronounced “no-ven-DEE-ah-les”). The Pope’s ring and seal are destroyed so no one can use them again.

Choosing a New Pope

After about two or three weeks, the cardinals—church leaders from around the world—meet in the Sistine Chapel. They vote in secret to choose a new Pope. When they finally agree, white smoke comes out of a chimney to show the world that a new Pope has been chosen.

What’s Next for the Church?

Pope Francis made many changes in the Church. The next Pope will have to decide if he wants to continue those changes or do things differently. Catholics around the world will be watching closely to see what happens.

So, when Pope Francis dies, there will be special traditions, prayers, and a new leader chosen. It’s a time of sadness, but also of hope for the future of the Church.