Pope Francis, the Head of Catholic Church, Passes Away at 88
Pope Francis, the spiritual head of over 1.4 billion Catholics across the world, has passed away at the age of 88. He was suffering from many age-related health issues and was in hospital for more than a month. He died early in the morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Vatican announced through a video statement on Monday. Cardinal Kevin Farrell shared this sad news on the Vatican’s Telegram channel, saying, “This morning at 7:35 am, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”
Just one day before his death, on Easter Sunday, Pope Francis had addressed people from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Over 35,000 people had gathered. But he did not read the full “Urbi et Orbi” speech himself; instead, one of his associates read it. In the message, he spoke about the importance of freedom of religion, thought, expression, and respect for others. He also raised concern about growing anti-Semitism and the tragic situation in Gaza.
Legacy of Pope Francis
Pope Francis was known around the world for his simple lifestyle, humble behaviour, and care for the poor. He was elected as Pope in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI resigned. Francis was the first Latin American and first Jesuit pope. People often called him “the pope of the slums” because he spent a lot of time with poor and marginalised communities, both in Argentina and during his time as pope. He strongly supported migrants, LGBTQ Catholics, and others who were often left out by the Church.
His Final Days
Pope Francis was discharged from the hospital on March 23, after five weeks of treatment for pneumonia. Due to his health, he missed many important Holy Week events this year, including the Good Friday procession at the Colosseum and the Easter vigil at St. Peter’s Basilica. For the first time since becoming pope, he delegated his duties during these events to other cardinals. Despite his old age and advice from doctors to slow down, he always kept a busy schedule and never took holidays.
What Happens After the Death of a Pope?
After the pope dies, the Vatican enters a period called “interregnum,” which means the time between the death of one pope and the election of a new one. The Camerlengo, who handles the Vatican’s properties and finances, is the person who officially confirms the pope’s death. He calls the pope’s baptismal name three times. If there is no response, he declares the pope dead. The old practice of tapping the pope’s forehead with a silver hammer was stopped after 1963. (Also read: American Tourist Faces Deportation After Shocking Wombat Video Goes Viral)
After the pope’s death is confirmed, the Vatican informs the world through its official channels. Then, the Camerlengo locks the papal apartment. Earlier, this was done to stop any stealing. He also arranges the destruction of the Pope’s ring (called the Fisherman’s Ring) and seal, to mark the end of the pope’s rule.
As per the Church law (Universi Dominici Gregis), the funeral must happen within 4 to 6 days. The pope is usually buried in St. Peter’s Basilica, unless he had asked to be buried somewhere else. After the funeral, a 9-day mourning period is observed.
How is the New Pope Elected?
The election of a new pope begins around 15–20 days after the pope’s death. This gives time for mourning and for all cardinals to reach Rome. Only cardinals under 80 years old are allowed to vote. They gather in the Sistine Chapel, where they are locked in and completely cut off from the outside world — no phones or media are allowed.
The cardinals vote in secret, in multiple rounds. A two-thirds majority is needed to elect a new pope. After each round of voting, the ballots are burned. If no pope is selected, black smoke is seen from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. When a new pope is chosen, white smoke appears, telling the world that a decision has been made.
Announcement of the New Pope
Once a new pope is selected, he is asked if he accepts the position. If he agrees, he chooses a new name, often inspired by saints or past popes. Then, the Senior Cardinal Deacon comes to the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and announces in Latin: “Habemus Papam” (which means “We have a pope”). After that, the new pope appears in front of the public and gives his first blessing to the people in St. Peter’s Square.
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