What happens after Pope Francis's death: Latest news about the Papal succession
After Pope Francis’s passing, the Vatican will follow a centuries-old ritual, including a triple coffin burial and a grand Requiem Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. The world now watches as the church prepares for the election of his successor.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, due to a stroke and subsequent heart failure. His death occurred at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in the Vatican. The official announcement was made by Cardinal Camarlengo Kevin Farrell, who confirmed the pontiff's passing and initiated the "sede vacante" period, during which the papal seat remains vacant until a new pope is elected.
The funeral ceremonies have been adapted to reflect Pope Francis's preferences, eliminating certain traditional elements such as the triple coffin, papal staff, and catafalque. A single coffin will be used, accompanied by a parchment summarizing his pontificate and commemorative coins. These modifications were outlined in the revised funeral protocol he approved in April 2024.
Next steps after the death of a pope
Official announcement:
- Made by the Head of the Vatican Directorate of Health and Hygiene and the Camerlengo.
- The Camerlengo annuls the papal ring, seals the pope’s private chambers, and oversees Vatican operations until a new pope is elected.
During the first 3 days:
- The pope’s body is transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Faithful Catholics are allowed to pay their respects.
Between 4 to 6 days after:
- The official funeral takes place.
For 9 days:
- A mourning period called the novendiales begins, during which nine masses are held.
- Cardinals travel to Rome to prepare for the conclave.
Between 15 to 20 days after:
- The conclave is held, where the new pope is elected.
- This date may be brought forward if all cardinals have already arrived.
Pope Francis to be buried in triple coffin as Vatican prepares funeral mass
Deceased popes are traditionally buried in a triple-coffin ritual: an inner cypress coffin lined with crimson velvet, a middle coffin made of lead, and an outer polished elm coffin. A parchment inscribed in classical Latin detailing the key moments of Pope Francis’s papacy is placed inside before sealing. Three red leather pouches containing gold, silver, and copper coins minted during his reign are also included. The coffins are secured with a purple silk cord and sealed with the melted wax bearing the papal coat of arms, stamped by the camerlengo.
In the days following the burial, special masses are held at St. Peter’s Basilica. Cardinals and bishops from around the world arrive in Rome for the funeral and to begin the election of the new pope. A Requiem Mass, presided over by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, will be celebrated in the basilica, featuring prayers, chants, and the Final Absolution. The Pope’s Fisherman’s Ring and mitre will be placed on the coffin. After the Mass, his body will be interred in the Papal Crypt beneath the basilica, where a marble tombstone will bear his name, birth, and death dates.
