Succession in the Event of a Pope’s Death or Resignation

Succession in the case of a Pope’s death or resignation is a complex ritualistic process that combines the spiritual role of the leader of the Catholic Church with his function as the head of the Vatican.

Each stage—from the confirmation of death to the white smoke of the election—is strictly followed, within defined timeframes and with the involvement of key figures within the ecclesiastical system.

The Camerlengo of the Vatican
According to the Associated Press, the so-called Camerlengo is the cardinal responsible for officially confirming the Pope’s death and sealing his personal quarters and office.
Until a successor is elected, the Camerlengo manages the “material goods and rights” of the Holy See. Currently, the position is held by Irish-American Cardinal Kevin Farrell.

Glossary of Papal Transition: From “Extra omnes” to “Habemus Papam”
Pope Francis with Cardinal Kevin Farrell

The College of Cardinals
Composed of 252 cardinals worldwide, 135 of whom are eligible to vote in the election of a new Pope and are known as “electors.” The majority of them—108 to be exact—were appointed by Pope Francis.

What is the Conclave?
The term derives from the Latin cum clave (“with a key”) and refers to the closed-door assembly of the elector cardinals in the Sistine Chapel, with the purpose of electing the new Pope. The process begins within 20 days of the Pope’s death or resignation and continues until a two-thirds majority is reached.

Who is the Dean of the College of Cardinals?
The cardinal who, once informed by the Camerlengo of the Pope’s death, announces the news to the rest of the cardinals and to the ambassadors of the Holy See. He presides over the conclave and, once a new Pope is chosen, asks whether he accepts the office and what name he wishes to take. Currently, this position is held by Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.

Glossary of Papal Transition: From “Extra omnes” to “Habemus Papam”
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re

What is the Domus Sanctae Marthae?
A guesthouse within the Vatican, built in 1996 to host cardinals during the conclave. It is also where Pope Francis chose to reside instead of the official papal apartments, staying in Suite 201.

What does “Extra omnes” mean?
The phrase means “everyone out” and is proclaimed in Latin by the Master of Ceremonies (currently Archbishop Diego Ravelli) to order everyone to leave the Sistine Chapel except the elector cardinals before voting begins.

The “Fisherman’s Ring”
Each new Pope receives this ring during the inaugural mass of his papacy. It bears the name of Peter, the first Pope, whom Jesus called to be a “fisher of men.” In the past, the ring was destroyed after a Pope’s death. Today, it is simply deactivated to prevent further use.

General Congregations
These are meetings of all cardinals prior to the conclave, during which Church matters are discussed and preparations are made. All cardinals attend except those with serious health issues.

Habemus Papam
The legendary Latin phrase meaning “We have a Pope.” It is proclaimed from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica by the protodeacon of the College—currently French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti—along with the birth name and chosen papal name of the new Pope.

Who are the Infirmarii?
Three cardinals, chosen by lot, responsible for collecting the votes of elector cardinals who are ill.

“Revisores”: Those Who Check the Votes
Three cardinals, also selected by lot, who inspect the ballots before the results are announced.

What is the Rogito?
A Latin document summarizing the life and work of the Pope, placed in his coffin. A copy is kept in the Vatican archives.

Who are the “Scrutatores”?
Three cardinals, drawn by lot, who read, count, and burn the ballots after each round of voting. A two-thirds majority is required for a valid election.

What Does “Sede Vacante” Mean?
A Latin phrase meaning “the seat is vacant,” referring to the period between the death or resignation of a Pope and the election of his successor.

What is the Black and White Smoke?
After each vote, ballots are burned to indicate the outcome. If no Pope is elected, chemicals are added to produce black smoke. If a Pope is elected, the smoke is white and accompanied by the ringing of bells.