Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died at 7:35 a.m. local time in his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City. The cause of death was a stroke leading to irreversible cardiac arrest, following complications from a recent bout of double pneumonia and other chronic health issues.
Vatican Plans when the Pope passes away
When a pope passes away, the Vatican follows a carefully planned process steeped in tradition and centuries-old customs. Here’s what happens:
- Confirmation of Death – The camerlengo (the Vatican’s chamberlain) verifies the pope’s passing by calling out his baptismal name three times. Historically, a silver hammer was used to tap the pope’s forehead, but this practice ended in 1963.
- Announcement & Mourning – The Vatican officially announces the pope’s death, and a period of mourning begins. Flags are lowered, church bells toll, and Catholics worldwide enter a time of prayer and remembrance.
- Sealing the Papal Apartment – The camerlengo locks the pope’s residence to prevent unauthorized access.
- Destruction of the Fisherman’s Ring – The pope’s official seal, the Fisherman’s Ring, is destroyed to prevent misuse.
- Preparation of the Body – The pope’s body is embalmed and dressed in liturgical vestments before being placed in St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing.
- Funeral & Burial – The funeral typically takes place within four to six days. The pope is usually buried in the Vatican Grottoes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, though Pope Francis requested a simpler burial.
- Election of a New Pope – The College of Cardinals gathers for a conclave to elect the next pope. The process is secretive, and voting continues until a candidate receives a two-thirds majority. White smoke from the Sistine Chapel signals the election of a new pope.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the first Latin American and Jesuit pope. Elected in 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, he was renowned for his humility and commitment to social justice. His papacy emphasized outreach to the poor, environmental stewardship, and inclusivity within the Church. Notable initiatives included his encyclical Laudato Si’ on environmental issues and efforts to reform Vatican bureaucracy and finances.
Looking Ahead: The 2025 Papal Conclave
The College of Cardinals is preparing for a conclave to elect Pope Francis's successor. The gathering will occur within the Sistine Chapel between May 6 and 12, 2025. While any baptized Catholic male is eligible, tradition suggests the next pope will be chosen from among the cardinals.
Pope Francis's death marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church. His legacy of compassion, humility, and advocacy for the marginalized will continue influencing the Church and its followers worldwide.