Pope Francis Passes Away at 88; Vatican Prepares for Leadership Transition
Vatican City — Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on April 21, just one day after appearing at St. Peter’s Square to extend Easter greetings to thousands of faithful. According to the Vatican, the Pope died peacefully following a stroke.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 when he became the first Latin American pontiff and the first Jesuit Pope. His papacy was marked by his humility, emphasis on compassion, and active engagement with global issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic and humanitarian concerns in conflict zones.
As the world honors his legacy, the Vatican now enters a period of transition known as the interregnum, or sede vacante—a time when the papal seat is vacant until a new Pope is elected.
What Happens After a Pope Dies?
Following a Pope’s passing, the Vatican observes nine days of official mourning, a period known as novendiales. The process of selecting a new Pope typically begins 15 to 20 days after the Pope’s death.
The election is overseen by the Camerlengo, a senior cardinal who coordinates the preparations for the conclave—the formal process by which a new Pope is chosen.
Before voting begins, general congregations are held where cardinals gather to reflect on the needs of the Church and discuss potential challenges. All cardinals may attend these meetings, but only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. This group of 120 electors will cast their votes inside the Sistine Chapel, following a traditional oath of secrecy.
How the Papal Conclave Works
During the conclave, cardinals are housed at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, a residence within Vatican City. They are isolated from the outside world to ensure confidentiality and focus.
Voting is conducted using secret ballots, which are counted and announced after each round. To be elected, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority vote. The process can take several rounds, and ballot results are indicated by the famous smoke signals from the Sistine Chapel chimney—white smoke signals a successful election, while black smoke means additional voting is needed.
Once a Pope is chosen, he is asked whether he accepts the role. If he does, he selects his papal name and is introduced to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica with the traditional words, “Habemus Papam” (“We have a Pope”).
Who Could Become the Next Pope?
Though predicting the next Pope is often uncertain, several cardinals have emerged as potential successors, known as papabili. Pope Francis appointed many of the current voting cardinals, which could influence the direction the Church takes moving forward.
Here are some of the most frequently discussed candidates:
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Jean-Marc Aveline (France, 66): Known for his advocacy on behalf of migrants and for promoting interfaith dialogue.
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Joseph Tobin (USA, 72): Recognized for his progressive stance on inclusivity and social justice.
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Juan Jose Omella (Spain, 79): Long-time advisor to Pope Francis, known for strong positions on social issues.
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Pietro Parolin (Italy, 70): Vatican Secretary of State, highly experienced in diplomacy and Church governance.
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Péter Erdő (Hungary, 72): A more conservative figure, respected for his theological expertise.
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Peter Turkson (Ghana, 76): Advocate for social justice, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability.
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Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines, 67): A compassionate and global-minded leader, supportive of modernization within the Church.
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Mario Grech (Malta, 68): Currently overseeing global Church consultation efforts; a supporter of dialogue and inclusion.
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Matteo Maria Zuppi (Italy, 69): Known for his diplomatic missions and advocacy for marginalized communities.
While these cardinals are frequently mentioned, it’s important to note that past elections have often brought surprises. In 2013, for example, Pope Francis himself was not widely expected to be chosen.
As the Catholic Church enters this period of reflection and renewal, millions around the world mourn Pope Francis’ passing while looking ahead to the future leadership of the Church.
