Christians around the world are preparing for what might be the end of Pope Francis, 88, who is still thoroughly ill in a Rome hospital due to a serious lung disease and other problems. While his doctors have reported minor improvements, his time and health history produce his condition questionable. The Catholic Church may revert to a centuries-old procedure to assure an orderly transition of power if Pope Francis were to go away. Every action is carefully planned, from the confirmation of his death to the vote of a new bishop.
Confirmation of Death
When a pope dies, his death is officially confirmed by a Vatican doctor and the Camerlengo ( Cardinal Chamberlain ), who temporarily takes charge of the church’s administration. The Camerlengo has a long history of tapping the bishop’s forehead with a little silver hammer and calling his name three times to make sure he was really dying. The Camerlengo also plays a significant role despite the fact that this tradition is no longer practiced. His first responsibilities include securing the priest’s private apartments, destroying the Fisherman’s Ring to stop fraud, and beginning the process of organizing the death and the vote of a new bishop.
Lying in State and Funeral Preparation
After death is confirmed, the bishop’s body is buried in a zinc-lined wooden coffin and dressed in traditional white catholic clothing. In the past, popes were displayed for viewing in the Apostolic Palace, but Pope Francis has simplified this history. Instead, his brain may be taken immediately to St. Peter’s Basilica, where the people can pay their respects. Four to six weeks after death, the death is held. Francis has decreed that he will be buried in a single wooden casket lined with copper, in contrast to previous rulers, who were buried in three stacked graves. He has also requested cremation in St. Mary Major Basilica rather than the standard coffins in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Funeral Service
A unique document, known as the rogito, summarizing the priest’s life and church, is placed inside the tomb along with coins minted during his day as bishop. His face is covered in a white silk mask the night before the death, which is done in the tomb. The priest’s death is one of the most solemn and important events in the Catholic Church, attended by earth leaders, spiritual figures, and thousands of mourners. The Dean of the College of Cardinals typically leads the dead size, which takes place in St. Peter’s Square.
The Period of Sede Vacante
The Catholic Church enters a period known as Sede Vacante ( Latin for” the seat is vacant” ) from the moment the pope passes away until a new one is elected. The College of Cardinals is in charge of Cathedral affairs at this time, but they are unable to make significant decisions. The church’s leadership is limited to important tasks, and elections are about to start. Chiefs from all over the world travel to Rome for the conference during this time, which can range from 15 to 20 times.
The Conclave: Electing a New Pope
The Conclave, a very mysterious meeting held inside the Sistine Chapel, is where a new pope is elected. Chiefs under the age of 80 are the only ones eligible to vote. The procedure adheres to strict regulations to guarantee justice and stop inside effect. Before election begins, each saint swears an oath of privacy. A candidate may get a two-thirds majority in order to be elected, and there are several rounds of voting. Black dust is released from a stove above the Sistine Chapel if no decision is reached, letting the general public know that the ballot is still continuous.
The White Smoke: A New Pope is Chosen
White dust is released from the Sistine Chapel after a new bishop is chosen, indicating that a decision has been made. The newly elected bishop is then asked if he agrees to the position. If he agrees, he chooses a new apostolic name and is dressed in white. He is then introduced to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where a senior cardinal proclaims the famous words:” Habemus Papam” —” We have a pope”. This marks the inauguration of a new church and guarantees the direction of the Catholic Church.
