What happens after a Pope dies: The Vatican’s process of papal succession explained

With the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church has officially entered a period known as sede vacante — Latin for “the seat being vacant” — triggering the centuries-old protocols that guide the transition of papal authority.While the Vatican has long-established laws and rituals to ensure the orderly transfer of power following a pope’s death or resignation, the death of Pope Francis marks the formal activation of those rules.
These norms, detailed in the apostolic constitution Universi Dominici Gregis, outline what happens during the interregnum and how the next pope is selected.
During this transitional period, the Camerlengo, currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell, takes charge of administrative duties.His responsibilities include officially certifying the pope’s death, sealing the papal apartments, and preparing for the funeral and conclave. The Dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 91, will preside over the funeral and organise the conclave that will elect Pope Francis’ successor.

The College of Cardinals — those under the age of 80 — will convene in the Sistine Chapel to vote in a secret ballot. A two-thirds majority is required to elect the next pontiff.

The search for the next Pope begins

Several cardinals have emerged as potential successors, including:

– Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
– Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
– Peter Cardinal Forest (Hungary)

– Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA)
– Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
– Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk (Netherlands)
– Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)

Each contender brings a distinct theological and geopolitical perspective. While some are seen as progressive voices aligned with Francis’ vision, others may represent a more conservative shift.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was elected as the 266th pope on March 13, 2013. His papacy was marked by a commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue, environmental protection, and reform within the Church. His passing at age 88 has not only left a spiritual vacuum for the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics but also set the stage for a significant moment of transformation for the Church.

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