What Happens Now? Pope Francis’ Funeral and the Hunt for a New Pope Explained”
The Vatican has begun historic preparations following Pope Francis’ death – here’s what happens next in simple terms, based on Reuters reporting:
1. The Funeral (Simpler Than Before)
- Pope Francis changed the rules – no fancy display of his body
- Will be buried in St. Mary Major Basilica (not under St. Peter’s like most popes)
- In a plain wooden coffin – no gold or lead layers
- Funeral expected in 4-6 days – world leaders will attend
2. Who Runs the Church Now?
- A top cardinal (called the “camerlengo”) takes temporary charge
- He’ll destroy Pope Francis’ ring (so no one can fake documents)
- All Vatican departments freeze – no big decisions until a new pope is picked
3. How the Next Pope is Chosen (The Secret Vote)
- 120 cardinals (under age 80) will meet in the Sistine Chapel
- Locked in with no phones – even the wifi is turned off!
- White smoke = new pope / Black smoke = no decision yet
- Needs 2/3 majority – could take days (or weeks if they fight)
4. Will the Next Pope Be Like Francis?
- Francis picked 80% of these cardinals – so maybe another reformer?
- But conservatives want a return to tradition (no more gay blessings, etc.)
- Reuters notes: The Church is deeply divided – this vote will be tense
5. When Will We Know?
- Voting starts 15-20 days after death (but could be sooner)
- First sign? White smoke from the chimney
- Then a cardinal announces “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”)
Why This Matters:
This is the first papal transition in 11 years – and could reshape the Catholic Church for decades.
https://www.reuters.com/world/steps-choose-successor-pope-francis-2025-04-21