Who is Cardinal Kevin Farrell? Acting leader of the Catholic Church until a new Pope is elected
Cardinal Kevin Farrell has assumed the role of acting leader of the Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis, overseeing the transition and important rituals during the papal interregnum.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1947, was appointed camerlengo by Pope Francis and took on this role following the pope's death on April 21, 2025. As camerlengo, Farrell is tasked with managing the Vatican's daily operations during the "sede vacante" period, which occurs between the death of a pope and the election of his successor. He announced Pope Francis's passing at the Domus Santa Marta, highlighting the late pontiff's unwavering dedication to serving the Lord and the Church.
During this transitional period, Cardinal Kevin Farrell is tasked with certifying Pope Francis’s death and overseeing the placement of his body in the coffin. On April 21 at 8:00 p.m., he will preside over the Rite of Verification of Death, as announced by the Office for the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff. The rite, held in the chapel of the Domus Sanctæ Marthæ, will follow traditional protocols. Attendees include the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Vatican officials, and the pope’s relatives. Farrell also formally announced the pontiff’s death from the Vatican.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell's global path: From seminary studies to leadership in Washington, D.C.
Educated at the University of Salamanca in Spain and the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Farrell holds degrees in philosophy and theology. He began studying for the priesthood in 1966 and was ordained on December 24, 1978. His early ministry included serving as chaplain of the Regnum Christi Movement at the University of Monterrey in Mexico.
In 1984, Farrell was incardinated into the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., where he served in various roles, including assistant pastor, director of the Spanish Catholic Center, and executive director of Catholic Charitable Organizations. He was appointed pastor of the Annunciation parish in Washington, D.C., in 2000.
Cardinal Farrell's rising influence: Key Vatican roles and leadership during the Papal transition
Farrell's Vatican appointments include being named camerlengo by Pope Francis in 2019, president of the Church's Commission on Confidential Matters in 2020, and President of the Pontifical Committee for Investments in 2022. These roles reflect his significant responsibilities within the Church's hierarchy.
As the Church prepares for the conclave to elect a new pope, Cardinal Farrell's leadership during this interregnum is crucial. His extensive experience and previous appointments position him as a key figure in ensuring the continuity of the Church's functions during this period.
