What Happens After the Pope Dies?

When the Pope dies, the world takes notice. But what really happens behind the scenes at the Vatican? The death of a Pope sets off a series of carefully planned steps that have been followed for centuries. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.

Step 1: Confirming the Pope’s Death

The moment the Pope passes away, the first thing that happens is the official confirmation of his death. This is usually done by the Camerlengo, a high-ranking Vatican official. Traditionally, he would call out the Pope’s baptismal name three times. If there’s no response, the Pope is declared dead. Today, this might be more symbolic, but the role of the Camerlengo remains important.

Step 2: Mourning and Honoring the Pope

After the Pope’s death is confirmed, the Vatican enters a period of mourning. For nine days, prayers and memorial services are held, a time called “Novemdiales.” During this time, the Pope’s body is usually placed in St. Peter’s Basilica, where thousands of people come to pay their respects. It’s a very solemn and respectful moment for Catholics around the world.

Step 3: The Pope’s Ring Is Destroyed

Each Pope wears a special gold ring called the Fisherman’s Ring. When he dies, the ring is destroyed in front of Vatican officials. This tradition symbolizes the end of his authority and helps prevent anyone from forging documents in his name after death.

Step 4: No Pope in Charge – The “Sede Vacante”

Once the Pope dies, the Church enters a phase called “Sede Vacante,” which is Latin for “the seat is vacant.” During this time, the Catholic Church doesn’t have a leader. The Camerlengo takes care of day-to-day matters, but no major decisions are made. It’s like a pause button on the Pope’s powers.

Step 5: Choosing a New Pope – The Conclave

The most important step is choosing the next Pope. This happens in a secret meeting called a Conclave. Only the Cardinals under the age of 80 are allowed to vote. They gather in the Sistine Chapel, and once the doors are closed, they don’t leave until a new Pope is chosen.

The Cardinals vote up to four times a day. After each round, the ballots are burned. If no one gets the required two-thirds majority, chemicals are added to the smoke to make it black, signaling no decision. When someone is finally chosen, the smoke turns white — and the world knows a new Pope has been elected.

Step 6: Introducing the New Pope

Once the new Pope accepts the role, he chooses a new name and changes into the papal white robes. Soon after, he steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, and a Cardinal announces “Habemus Papam” — Latin for “We have a Pope!”