Rituals Performed Once a Pope’s Death Is Confirmed
With the Vatican’s official announcement of the death of Pope Francis, the Roman Catholic Church has now entered the solemn period known as Sede Vacante — Latin for “the seat being vacant.” This interregnum marks the transition between pontificates and begins with a unique set of time-honored rituals.
Although a medical doctor certifies the death, only the Camerlengo — currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell — is authorized to formally initiate the Church’s post-death procedures. As the Vatican’s Chamberlain and administrator of its property and revenue, the Camerlengo holds a critical role during this transition.
Confirming the Pope’s Death
The ritual begins when the Camerlengo calls out the Pope’s baptismal name — in this case, Jorge Mario Bergoglio — three times. Traditionally, this was done to ensure the Pope was not in a deep sleep or coma. Once no response is received, the Camerlengo confirms the pontiff’s death.
Destruction of the Fisherman’s Ring
One of the most symbolic acts that follows is the destruction of the Ring of the Fisherman, also called the Piscatory Ring. Once used to seal official papal documents, the ring’s destruction today serves as a ceremonial signal marking the end of the Pope’s authority and to prevent potential misuse.
Sealing the Papal Apartments
Shortly after confirming the Pope’s death, the papal apartments are sealed. Historically, this measure helped protect the Pope’s personal belongings from tampering or theft, though today it remains largely symbolic.
Guided by Tradition
The Camerlengo follows an official 400-page guidebook known as Funeral Rites of the Roman Pontiff to carry out every aspect of the mourning and funeral process. This manual outlines timelines, liturgies, and ceremonial procedures rooted in centuries of Catholic tradition.
Tolling of the Bells
For the public, the first signal of a Pope’s death is the tolling of the bell at St. Peter’s Basilica. The bell rings once for each year the Pope lived. In 2005, when Pope John Paul II died at the age of 84, the bell tolled 84 times. However, in 2013, the bells remained silent as Pope Benedict XVI resigned rather than passed away.
The Path Forward
While canon law offers no provisions for removing a Pope from office, it does allow for voluntary resignation — a rare move seen with Pope Benedict XVI. But under most circumstances, a new pope is chosen only after the death of the previous one, as is now the case.
As the Catholic Church prepares for the funeral of Pope Francis and the ensuing conclave to elect his successor, Nairobian will continue to offer dedicated coverage of this deeply spiritual and historical moment.
In other news: How a New Pope Is Chosen
Rituals Performed Once a Pope’s Death Is Confirmed