What happens when a pope dies: Death, Interregnum, & Conclave Explained

Summary

This detailed script explores the intricate process that occurs following the death of a Pope. It begins with the confirmation of the Pope's death by a specially designated Cardinal and follows through the stages of the interregnum. The College of Cardinals plays a pivotal role in electing a new Pope through the conclave, with a series of rituals, voting, and traditions that ensure the election is conducted with secrecy and integrity. The script also highlights the distinct ranks within the College of Cardinals and explains the necessary steps before the newly elected Pope assumes their role, including the acceptance of the position and the apostolic blessing.

Takeaways

• 😀 The first step after a pope's death is for a cardinal called the camerlengo to verify the death.
• 😀 Traditionally, the camerlengo would tap the pope's head with a ceremonial silver hammer and call him by his baptismal name to confirm his death.
• 😀 Upon confirmation of the pope's death, the church enters a period known as the interregnum, during which many high-ranking officials temporarily lose their positions.
• 😀 During the interregnum, only a few key officials, including the cardinal vicar of Rome and the head of the apostolic penitentiary, remain in power.
• 😀 The process of selecting a new pope begins with nine days of masses and prayers, known as the 'nalas,' before the election of a new pontiff.
• 😀 The College of Cardinals is divided into three groups: Cardinal Bishops, Cardinal Priests, and Cardinal Deacons, with different roles and ranks.
• 😀 Not every cardinal is eligible to vote in the conclave; only those under 80 years of age are allowed to vote for the new pope.
• 😀 The conclave follows strict secrecy and a series of voting processes, including multiple rounds of voting with a 2/3 majority required for election.
• 😀 If no pope is elected after several rounds of voting, the process may be paused for prayer and discussion, and more ballots will be taken to try to reach a consensus.
• 😀 The pope's election is considered void if the conclave does not follow the prescribed rules, ensuring that only a valid process results in the election of a legitimate pope.

Q & A

What is the first thing that happens when the Pope dies?

The first thing that happens is that a specific Cardinal, known as the Camerlengo, verifies the Pope's death. This is done by tapping the Pope three times on his head with a ceremonial silver hammer and calling him by his baptismal and childhood names.

What is the role of the Camerlengo during the interregnum?

The Camerlengo, who is appointed during the sede vacante (vacant seat) period, holds temporary stewardship over the Vatican. The Camerlengo is responsible for managing the affairs of the Holy See until a new Pope is elected.

Why do most high-ranking clerics lose their positions during the interregnum?

Most high-ranking clerics lose their positions because the new Pope will select his own governing body, known as the Roman Curia, which serves as the administration of the Vatican. Only a few positions, such as the Cardinal Vicar of Rome and the Apostolic Penitentiary, remain in power during this time.

What is the purpose of the Apostolic Penitentiary during the interregnum?

The Apostolic Penitentiary remains in power during the interregnum because it is responsible for dispensing matters like indulgences, dispensations, and excommunications, which cannot be handled by anyone other than the Holy See.

What is the Noli period and how long does it last?

The Noli period is a nine-day period of masses and prayers for the Pope after his death. During this time, people pay their respects, and a funeral mass is held, traditionally with the Requiem and In Paradisum hymns.

What is the role of the College of Cardinals in electing the new Pope?

The College of Cardinals is responsible for electing the new Pope. The election takes place in a conclave, where Cardinals are required to maintain secrecy and follow strict rules to ensure the election process is fair and legitimate.

How is the College of Cardinals divided?

The College of Cardinals is divided into three ranks: Cardinal Bishops, Cardinal Priests, and Cardinal Deacons. These ranks are not based on the typical holy orders but have historical significance related to the ecclesiastical structure of Rome.

Who is eligible to vote in the papal election?

Only Cardinals who are under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the papal election. Cardinals who are 80 years old or older are not allowed to vote.

What happens if the initial rounds of voting do not result in a 2/3 majority?

If no candidate receives a 2/3 majority after the initial rounds of voting, the Cardinals take a break for prayer and reflection. Then, they resume voting with more rounds until a consensus is reached. If necessary, the number of ballots can be reduced to a simple majority of 50%.

What happens after a new Pope is elected?

Once a new Pope is elected, the Cardinal Dean asks the elected person if they accept the canonical election. If they do, they are asked what name they wish to be called. After accepting the position, the new Pope is immediately the Bishop of Rome and the Pope, with full rights and powers.