The death of a pope marks a monumental moment for the global Catholic Church, triggering sacred rituals and centuries-old traditions that guide the Church through mourning and the selection of a new spiritual leader.
With Pope Francis, the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, passing away, the world stands still. From the crowded streets of Rome to small chapels in distant villages, people are whispering prayers, lighting candles, and shedding tears for a man shepherding the faithful with humility and heart.
In Catholic history St. Peter was the first pope of the Catholic Church. He was one of Jesus’s original 12 disciples.
Inside the Vatican, ancient protocols are setting into motion. The Camerlengo, the cardinal entrusted with overseeing the Church between papacies, is confirming the pope’s death. The papal ring, a symbol of authority, is being destroyed ceremonially to prevent misuse, and the pope’s private quarters are being sealed.
This marks the beginning of the “SEDE VACANTE” — Latin for “The Seat Being Vacant.” During this time, the Vatican’s regular operations pause. No major decisions are being made, and attention is turning entirely to mourning and transition.
For nine days, the Church will observe the Novemdiales, a period of solemn prayers, Masses, and public remembrance. Yet amid the grief, preparations are beginning for the sacred task of choosing the next pope.
THE CONCLAVE: A SACRED ELECTION
Fifteen to twenty days after the pope’s death, the College of Cardinals — senior Church leaders from around the world — will be gathering in Vatican City. Only those under 80 years of age remain eligible to vote. These men, who are spending their lives serving the Church, are carrying the heavy responsibility of electing a new pontiff.
In total secrecy, the cardinals will enter the Sistine Chapel, swearing oaths of silence. Cut off from the outside world, they will begin the conclave, casting ballots up to four times a day.
As tradition dictates, smoke from a chimney above the chapel will signal their progress: black smoke means no decision; white smoke will announce that a new pope is chosen.
WHO CAN BECOME POPE?
The eligibility requirements for becoming pope remain rooted in Catholic tradition and canon law:
1. The candidate must be a baptized male Catholic — only men are being ordained within the Church, which is necessary for assuming the papal role.
2. He must be ordained as a bishop or able to be ordained immediately — the pope serves as the Bishop of Rome.
3. He must be elected by the College of Cardinals — while technically any Catholic male can be chosen, the cardinals traditionally select one of their own.
4. He must be of strong moral and doctrinal standing — the Church is seeking a man of deep faith, pastoral wisdom, and leadership.
Popes from Africa: A Historic Contribution
Though most popes in history are coming from Europe, especially Italy, three popes have come from Africa — all during the early centuries of the Church:
Pope Victor I (reigning c. 189–199) — Born in Roman North Africa, he is writing Church documents in Latin.
Pope Miltiades (reigning 311–314) — Also from North Africa, he is serving during the time Constantine is legalizing Christianity.
Pope Gelasius I (reigning 492–496) — Likely of African origin, he is asserting the spiritual authority of the papacy over secular rulers.
Though it has been centuries since an African held the papacy, African cardinals today are rising in influence, and the Church on the continent is growing rapidly — sparking hopes that one day, history will repeat itself.
A NEW ERA BEGINNING
After several rounds of voting, white smoke will billow into the sky over St. Peter’s Basilica. And cheers will erupt from the crowds below. “Habemus Papam!” — “We Have A Pope!” — as the cardinal steps onto the balcony.
A new spiritual leader will step forward, carrying the mantle of Peter and guide the Church into its next chapter. Though the cassock is changing, the mission remains eternal — serving, shepherding, and leading in faith.
Ends///
