What Happens When A Pope Dies: Traditions And Protocols

The death of a pope marks a profound moment in the life of the Catholic Church. Rich in history, symbolism, and solemn ritual, the days following a pontiff’s passing are carefully choreographed according to centuries-old traditions. From the sealing of his apartment to the election of a new pope, every detail is steeped in spiritual and ecclesial significance.

The Official Confirmation of Death

When a pope dies, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church—currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell—is the cardinal responsible for officially confirming the death. In the past, a silver hammer was used to gently tap the pope’s forehead while calling his baptismal name three times. Today, more modern medical methods are used. For Pope Francis, the Vatican confirmed his passing through medical tests, including an echocardiogram.

Following confirmation, the Camerlengo seals the pope’s private quarters with wax and red ribbon. The pope’s ring, known as the “Fisherman’s Ring”, is also destroyed to prevent forgery, symbolising the end of his earthly authority.

Mourning and Lying in State

Once the pope’s death is confirmed, the Church enters a nine-day mourning period known as the Novemdiales. During this time, daily Masses are held for the repose of the pope’s soul, and black drapes may cover sacred images in some churches.

The pope’s body is typically displayed in state, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. The body is first dressed in papal vestments, often including a red cassock, mitre, and a rosary placed in the hands. For Pope Francis, images have already been released showing him lying in an open casket in Casa Santa Marta, before being transferred to St Peter’s Basilica for public veneration.

The Funeral Mass

The funeral of a pope is a major liturgical event, usually taking place in St Peter’s Square and attended by world leaders, cardinals, bishops, clergy, and tens of thousands of mourners. The Mass is traditionally celebrated by the Dean of the College of Cardinals—in 2025, this is Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.

At the conclusion of the Mass, the Ultima commendatio (Final Commendation) and Valedictio (Farewell) are prayed. The pope’s coffin is then carried into the Basilica for a final blessing before being buried, often in the crypt below St Peter’s or another designated basilica. In Pope Francis’ case, he requested burial in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major with an inscription of his name in Latin: Franciscus.

The Interregnum: Time Without a Pope

Following the pope’s burial, the Church enters a period known as the interregnum (Latin for “between reigns”). During this time, no major decisions or reforms can be made within the Church. The College of Cardinals oversees the day-to-day affairs and prepares for the conclave to elect a new pope.

All cardinals under the age of 80 are called to Rome for the conclave, a sacred and secretive process that takes place in the Sistine Chapel. The doors are locked, and the cardinals vote until a two-thirds majority is reached. The famous white smoke (fumata bianca) signals to the world that a new pope has been chosen.

The Announcement of a New Pope

Once a candidate accepts the election, he chooses a papal name. The senior cardinal deacon then announces the new pope from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica with the words: Habemus Papam (“We have a pope”). The new pontiff then appears before the crowds and offers his first apostolic blessing.

Spiritual and Historical Significance

The death of a pope is not merely a political or organisational event—it is a spiritual turning point for the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. It invites reflection on mortality, legacy, and the unbroken apostolic succession that traces back to Saint Peter.

As Pope Francis once wrote before his death:

“Death is not the end but the start of something… It is a new beginning because eternal life is something those who love life experience on Earth in their everyday occupations.”

His passing, like those of his predecessors, becomes a moment for global unity, prayer, and anticipation of what the Holy Spirit will bring next to the See of Peter.

Did you know? The Vatican has no official retirement age for a pope, though Pope Benedict XVI made history by voluntarily stepping down in 2013—an event that hadn’t happened in over 600 years.