Pope Francis Passes Away

Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025 after a prolonged illness. His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell from the Casa Santa Marta, the Pope’s official residence. Following his hospitalisation for bronchitis and pneumonia, Francis returned home but succumbed to his health issues. This event marks moment in Catholic history, as it initiates the process of selecting a new pope.

Death Announcement and Rituals

The death of a pope triggers specific rituals. The camerlengo verifies the pope’s death by calling his baptismal name thrice. If there is no response, he declares the pope dead. The updated Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis outlines the funeral rites, with changes indicating that the death will be verified in the chapel rather than the pope’s room. The Ring of the Fisherman is broken to signify the end of the papacy.

Papal Funeral and Mourning Period

The funeral typically occurs within four to six days. The Pope’s body is displayed in St Peter’s Basilica, dressed in papal regalia. Pope Francis opted for a simple coffin instead of the traditional three-coffin arrangement. Following the funeral, the Novendiale, or nine days of mourning, is observed.

Sede Vacante and Conclave

Upon the pope’s death, the Church enters a Sede Vacante period. This means the papal seat is vacant. The College of Cardinals governs the Church until a new pope is elected. Cardinals under 80 years old gather for the conclave within 15-20 days of the pope’s death. They vote in secret until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority. Black smoke indicates no election, while white smoke signals a new pope.

Eligibility and Voting Process

In India, four cardinals are eligible to vote in the conclave. These are Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, Cardinal Cleemis Baselios, Cardinal Anthony Poola, and Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad. The voting occurs in the Sistine Chapel, and the new pope is announced from St Peter’s Basilica’s balcony.

Papal Role and History

The pope serves as the Bishop of Rome and the leader of the Catholic Church. Pope Francis, the 266th pope, was the first from South America and the Jesuit order. He was known for his moderate views and emphasis on reform. His papacy focused on addressing corruption and child abuse within the Church.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the significance of the Sede Vacante period in the Catholic Church’s governance.
2. Estimate the impact of Pope Francis’s reforms on the Catholic Church’s global perception.
3. Point out the historical evolution of papal funeral rites from the Middle Ages to the present.
4. What is the process of conclave in electing a new pope? How does it reflect the Church’s governance structure?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the significance of the Sede Vacante period in the Catholic Church’s governance.

1. Sede Vacante means “the seat is vacant,” marking the period after a pope’s death or resignation.
2. The College of Cardinals temporarily governs the Church, maintaining continuity in leadership.
3. This period allows for reflection and preparation for the upcoming conclave to elect a new pope.
4. It marks the importance of collective decision-making among cardinals in the absence of a pope.
5. Historically, Sede Vacante has been crucial for managing transitions and addressing urgent Church matters.

2. Estimate the impact of Pope Francis’s reforms on the Catholic Church’s global perception.

1. Pope Francis emphasized humility, social justice, and outreach to marginalized communities, reshaping the Church’s image.
2. His moderate stance on controversial issues garnered both support and criticism, reflecting the Church’s evolving nature.
3. He focused on transparency and accountability, particularly regarding clerical abuse scandals, improving credibility.
4. His reforms have attracted younger generations, enhancing the Church’s relevance in modern society.
5. Overall, his papacy has contributed to a more progressive global perception of the Catholic Church.

3. Point out the historical evolution of papal funeral rites from the Middle Ages to the present.

1. Papal funeral rites have evolved , with roots tracing back to the Middle Ages, emphasizing solemnity and pageantry.
2. Traditionally, popes were interred in elaborate multiple coffins; recent changes reflect a simpler approach.
3. The Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis outlines specific rituals, which have been updated to reflect contemporary practices.
4. Public viewing in St. Peter’s Basilica has been a consistent feature, symbolizing the pope’s connection with the faithful.
5. Modern reforms focus on accessibility and humility, aligning with Pope Francis’s vision for the Church.

4. What is the process of conclave in electing a new pope? How does it reflect the Church’s governance structure?

1. The conclave is a secret assembly of cardinals convened to elect a new pope, typically held within 15-20 days after a pope’s death.
2. Cardinals under 80 years old participate, voting in multiple rounds until a candidate receives a two-thirds majority.
3. Black smoke indicates no election, while white smoke signifies a new pope has been chosen.
4. The process emphasizes the Church’s hierarchical structure, with the College of Cardinals playing a vital role in governance.
5. This democratic approach to papal election reflects the Church’s commitment to collective leadership and accountability.