🕊️ | Top 15 Things the Vatican Does
The death of a pope is one of the most significant events in the Roman Catholic Church. As both a spiritual and political leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide, the passing of a pontiff sets into motion a series of ancient rituals, liturgical customs, and administrative procedures. These actions ensure a dignified farewell for the deceased pope and a smooth transition of leadership. Below are the 15 most important things that take place after the pope dies.
1. Confirmation of Death
When the pope passes away, the Camerlengo—currently the Cardinal Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church—must officially confirm the death. Traditionally, he calls the pope three times by his baptismal name. If there is no response, the death is declared. Modern practice may also involve medical professionals, but the ceremonial confirmation remains.
2. Destruction of the Fisherman’s Ring
The Fisherman’s Ring, a gold signet ring worn by the pope and used to seal official documents, is a symbol of papal authority. Once the pope has died, the Camerlengo destroys the ring in a symbolic act, usually by scratching or breaking it. This is done to prevent forgery or misuse of the deceased pope’s authority during the sede vacante—the time when there is no pope.
3. Sealing of the Papal Apartments
Soon after the pope’s death, his private rooms in the Apostolic Palace are sealed off. Only a few officials are allowed access. This is both a security measure and a symbolic act that signifies the end of the pontificate. The seal remains in place until a new pope is elected.
4. Notification to Vatican Officials and the World
The Camerlengo informs the Dean of the College of Cardinals, who then communicates the news to the rest of the cardinals. The Vatican Press Office prepares an official announcement for the public and the world’s media. Diplomats and heads of state are also notified as part of formal international protocol.
5. Preparation and Dressing of the Body
The deceased pope’s body is ritually washed and dressed in traditional red papal vestments. This preparation reflects both religious reverence and liturgical tradition. The body is often placed in a private chapel before public viewing.
6. Novemdiales: Nine Days of Mourning
The Church observes nine days of official mourning, known as the Novemdiales. Daily Masses and prayers are held in the pope’s honor, including a series of solemn liturgies at St. Peter’s Basilica. This period is both spiritual and ceremonial, allowing Catholics to reflect and pray.
7. Lying in State
The pope’s body is placed in St. Peter’s Basilica, or another designated location, where the faithful can come to pay their respects. The lying in state typically lasts several days and draws hundreds of thousands of mourners, from local Catholics to international dignitaries.
8. Funeral Mass
One of the most important events following the pope’s death is the funeral Mass, usually held in St. Peter’s Square. It is led by the Dean of the College of Cardinals and attended by world leaders, clergy, and the faithful. The Mass is a solemn occasion that celebrates the pope’s life, service, and entry into eternal rest.
9. Burial
The pope is buried in a triple coffin—wood, lead, and then wood again—a long-standing papal tradition. The burial often takes place in the grotto beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, although some popes have chosen different burial sites within Vatican grounds. A lead scroll with a summary of the pope’s life and reign is usually placed inside the coffin.
10. Calling of the College of Cardinals
All members of the College of Cardinals under the age of 80 are summoned to Rome. These cardinals are responsible for both the funeral rites and for electing the new pope. The process begins with meetings and prayers, and all cardinals are expected to arrive as quickly as possible.
11. General Congregations of Cardinals
Before the conclave officially begins, the cardinals meet in a series of General Congregations. In these meetings, they discuss the current state of the Church and prepare spiritually and administratively for the conclave. They also review security and communication protocols to ensure strict confidentiality.
12. Sede Vacante Begins
The period between the pope’s death and the election of his successor is known as the sede vacante ("the seat being vacant"). During this time, the Church is governed by the College of Cardinals, but no major decisions or policy changes can be made. The Camerlengo oversees day-to-day administration.
13. Conclave Preparation
The Sistine Chapel is prepared for the secret conclave. Security measures are extreme—electronic jammers, physical searches, and even Vatican-run accommodations for cardinals to ensure total seclusion. The phrase "extra omnes" (“everyone out”) is proclaimed when the conclave begins, and all non-essential personnel are dismissed.
14. Conclave and Voting
Only cardinals under 80 may vote. The voting process involves secret ballots, and a two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope. After each voting round, the ballots are burned. Chemicals are added to produce black smoke if no decision is made, or white smoke when a pope has been elected.
15. "Habemus Papam!" – The Announcement of a New Pope
When a new pope is elected, white smoke billows from the Sistine Chapel chimney, and bells ring across Vatican City. The senior cardinal deacon then appears on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and announces: "Habemus Papam" ("We have a pope"). The new pope then appears, gives his first blessing, and begins his papacy.
🕯️ A Time of Transition and Tradition
The death of a pope is not only a moment of mourning but also one of reverence, unity, and deep tradition. These rituals help preserve continuity and spiritual focus in the Catholic Church, ensuring a respectful farewell and a smooth path to the election of a new leader.
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