The Passing of a Pope: Rites, Rituals, and Conclave Explained

What happens when a Pope passes away? In this special bonus episode, Dr. Sri delves into the ancient and solemn traditions that take place when a Pope dies. Learn about the role of the Vatican Chamberlain, the centuries-old funeral rites, and the process leading up to the conclave to elect the next Pope. 

Snippet from the Show

The Church has beautiful traditions and ceremonies during the sacred transition between Popes.

Shownotes

The Death of the Pope

• The Vatican Chamberlain plays a crucial role in the ceremonies following the death of the Pope.
• The Chamberlain calls out the Pope's baptismal name three times to confirm the death.
• The Papal ring is destroyed, and the Papal apartments are sealed.
• The death of the Pope is announced to the world through the tolling of the Bell of St. Peter's.

The Interregnum Period

• The Interregnum is the period between the death of the Pope and the election of a new Pope.
• The College of Cardinals provides general oversight of the church during this period.
• Traditions include a private viewing of the body, followed by a public viewing in St. Peter's Basilica.
• The funeral traditionally involves placing the body in three nested coffins, but Pope Francis simplified it to one simple coffin.
• The Pope is buried with a bag of coins from his papacy and a canister containing a document detailing his life and papacy.
• Traditionally, Popes are buried in St. Peter's.

The Conclave

• The Sistine Chapel is closed to prepare for the conclave, during which the Vatican Fire Brigade sets up stoves for burning ballots and creating smoke signals.
• Cardinals gather and hold informal discussions before the conclave begins.
• The conclave is the process of electing a new Pope, during which the cardinals are locked in and have no contact with the outside world.
• Only cardinals under 80 years old can vote.
• Election requires a two-thirds majority vote, and ballots are burned after each vote.
• White smoke signals the election of a new Pope.
• The Dean of the College of Cardinals asks the elected if he accepts and what name he will take as Pope.
• The new Pope is announced to the world from the balcony of St. Peter's.

Dr. Sri's Events List (2025)

• May 16-17: Ave Maria Retreat - Ave Maria, FL
• June 8 - Rockville NY
• June 22-30: Rome Pilgrimage - Italy
• Aug 2-5: Grand Getaway - Mackinac Island, MI
• Sept 13 - Marriage Weekend - Fort Collins, CO
• Sept 20 - Eucharist Encounter - Tampa FL
• Aug 9: Emmaus: Diocesan Family Conference - Gary, IN
• Oct 8: Legatus - Jacksonville, FL
• Oct 11 - Love and Responsibility Conference - Los Angeles CA
• Oct 13-15 - Madison WI
• Oct 22-24 - Missionaries of Charity - Memphis TN

Resources

• To learn more about Dr. Sri's Holy Land pilgrimages email holyland.edwardsri@gmail.com 
• Visit Dr. Sri’s website at www.edwardsri.com and to book online events with Dr. Sri email events.edwardsri@gmail.com
• Find more of Dr. Sri’s episodes at www.ascensionpress.com/allthingscatholic 
• Ascension is pleased to offer our new and improved online bible study programs and sacramental preparation programs digitally to help you minister with flexibility. Go to www.ascensionpress.com to view all our offerings