Explained: What Follows The Death Of Pope Francis & How Is A New Catholic Church Head Elected?

Pope Francis, head of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88 in Rome after serving over a decade as the spiritual leader of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. The Vatican confirmed his death on Monday, April 21, setting into motion the centuries-old procedures to select his successor.

What Happens After Pope's Death?

Pope Francis, elected in March 2013, was the first Latin American pontiff, known for his emphasis on humility, social justice, and reform within the Church. His 12-year papacy was marked by efforts to modernise Church teachings and practices, as well as a personal approach that earned him the moniker 'The People’s Pope.'

In keeping with his values, Francis chose to simplify the traditional papal funeral. Unlike his predecessors who were buried in triple coffins and displayed on a raised platform, Francis opted for a plain wooden coffin lined with zinc. His body will not be placed on a catafalque for public viewing. Instead, mourners will be able to pay their respects with the coffin lid open.

Pope Francis will become the first pontiff in over a century to be buried outside Vatican grounds. His final resting place will be the Basilica of St Mary Major, one of four major papal basilicas in Rome.

How Is A New Pope Elected?

With the Pope's passing, the Catholic Church turns to its senior-most clerics, the College of Cardinals, to elect a new leader. Comprising 252 members, 138 cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the papal election, which is conducted in complete secrecy inside the Sistine Chapel.

The process, known as the Conclave, may take days or a few weeks. Until a new Pope is elected, the Church is governed by the College of Cardinals. Each voting session concludes with the burning of ballots. The colour of the smoke rising from the chapel’s chimney is the only public indicator of progress — black for inconclusive results, white for a successful election.

Who Can Be A Pope?

While theoretically any baptised Roman Catholic man is eligible to be elected, the papacy has almost always gone to a cardinal. Historically, most Popes have been Italian, 217 out of 266, but Francis’ election from Argentina marked a significant shift in the pattern.

Though South America accounts for 28% of the global Catholic population, reports hint that the next Pope may once again come from Europe, particularly Italy.

How Is A New Pope Announced?

Once the decision is made, the senior cardinal will step out onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to deliver the time-honoured Latin phrase, “Habemus Papam” or “We have a Pope.” The newly elected leader will then make his first appearance, introduced by his chosen papal name.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, famously took his name in honour of St Francis of Assisi, reflecting his commitment to humility and care for the poor.

The Church will now prepare for the arrival of a new spiritual shepherd.

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