Pope Francis Dies at 88 The beloved leader of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, Pope Francis, has passed away peacefully at the Vatican. His death marks the end of a historic pontificate known for mercy and reform.

The Death Announcement How Is a Pope’s Death Confirmed? The Vatican’s camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, officially confirms the pope’s death by calling his baptismal name three times. With no response, the pope’s passing is declared, and the news is shared globally through Vatican channels

The Interregnum Period What Happens After the Pope Dies? The Vatican enters a period called sede vacante — “the seat is vacant.” The camerlengo locks the papal apartments and destroys the Fisherman’s Ring, symbolizing the end of the pope’s reign. A 9-day mourning period follows.

The Funeral When and Where Is the Pope Buried? The funeral is held within 4-6 days after death, usually at St. Peter’s Basilica unless otherwise requested. Pope Francis chose to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome.

Preparing for the New Pope Who Elects the Next Pope? The College of Cardinals, all male and mostly bishops appointed by the pope, convenes to elect the successor. Only cardinals under 80 years old can vote in the conclave.

The Papal Conclave The Secretive Election Process Cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel, cut off from the outside world. They vote multiple times daily until a candidate receives a two-thirds majority. Ballots are burned after each vote.

How Does the World Know the Result? Black smoke means no decision yet; white smoke signals a new pope has been elected. The smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel chimney, watched by millions worldwide

The New Pope’s Announcement “Habemus Papam!” The senior cardinal deacon announces “Habemus Papam” (“We have a pope”) from St. Peter’s Basilica balcony. The new pope then appears to bless the crowd and begins his papacy.

What’s Next for the Catholic Church? A Time of Transition and Hope With Pope Francis’s death, the Catholic Church enters a historic transition. The world watches as the cardinals choose a leader to guide 1.4 billion faithful into the future.

Follow Our Coverage For the latest updates on the papal conclave, funeral arrangements, and the new pope’s election, stay tuned to trusted news sources and Vatican announcements.