The Death of a Pope: What It Really Means for the Catholic Church

The passing of a pope is always a momentous event for the Catholic Church—not just symbolically, but in terms of procedure, it’s a major undertaking.

Following the death of Pope Francis—yes, he has passed—there have been some notable changes to the traditional papal funeral process. According to a November 2024 report by the Associated Press, Pope Francis had simplified many of the rites. Monsignor Diego Ravelli, the Vatican’s master of liturgical ceremonies, explained that these adjustments aim to highlight the pope’s role as a humble servant of Christ, rather than a figure of worldly power.

That said, many historic customs remain intact. So, what exactly happens when a pope dies?

What happens when a pope passes away?

Once a pope dies, his body is prepared by being blessed and dressed in traditional papal vestments. It is then placed on public display at St. Peter’s Basilica for nine days of mourning, a practice rooted in ancient Roman customs known as the Novemdiales, as reported by POLITICO EU.

Immediate actions after a pope’s death

The first official step is the ceremonial confirmation of death by the camerlengo, the pope’s chief of staff. The camerlengo calls out the pope’s name three times. If there’s no response, he declares the pope deceased and authorizes a death certificate. The camerlengo then informs the cardinal vicar of the Diocese of Rome, according to The Washington Post. At the time of Pope Francis’ death, Cardinal Kevin Farrell held the role of camerlengo, while Baldassare Reina was the cardinal vicar.

What happens to the papal ring?

After the pope’s death is confirmed, the camerlengo removes and ceremonially destroys the Fisherman’s Ring, which symbolizes the pope’s authority. This act signifies the official end of the pope’s reign.

Steps following the pope’s death:

1. The camerlengo verifies and declares the pope’s death.

2. The cardinal vicar of Rome is notified.

3. The papal ring and seal are destroyed.

4. The pope’s private quarters are sealed.

5. His body is prepared and displayed for public viewing in St. Peter’s Basilica.

6. Burial typically takes place within four to six days.

Who leads the Church after the pope dies?

In the absence of a pope, the camerlengo and two senior cardinals temporarily oversee Church affairs. A new pope is usually elected within two weeks, though the process can take up to 20 days.

Why seal the pope’s apartments?

This tradition originates from a time when there were concerns about looting the papal residence. While looting is no longer a significant issue, the sealing of the apartments remains a symbolic act of respect and transition.

Do popes get embalmed?

There’s no mandatory rule on embalming; it’s left to the individual pope’s preference. While most popes are embalmed, Pope John Paul II notably chose not to be.

Which pope didn’t decompose?

When Pope John XXIII’s tomb was opened in 2001, his body was remarkably well-preserved, even decades after his 1963 death. This preservation is attributed to the use of formalin and an airtight coffin.

Are popes displayed in glass coffins?

Yes, popes are usually placed in glass coffins during the public mourning period, although this is not how they are buried. In Pope Francis’ case, he reportedly chose a simple wooden casket for viewing.

Why are popes buried in red?

The red garments symbolize martyrdom and the willingness to shed blood for the faith, according to the National Catholic Reporter.

Are popes buried in three coffins?

Traditionally, popes were laid to rest in three nested coffins—cypress, lead, and oak. However, Pope Francis broke from this custom as well, opting instead for a single wooden casket lined with zinc, reflecting his lifelong commitment to humility.

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