Pope Francis Death 2025: What Happens Next in the Vatican
On April 21, 2025, the world woke to the news of Pope Francis’ death at age 88, a moment that has gripped millions, from Vatican City to Buenos Aires. The first Jesuit pope, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away after a battle with double pneumonia, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and reform. As the Catholic Church enters a historic transition, questions like “Did Pope Francis die?” and “Who will be the next pope?” are trending across platforms like X and Google. This comprehensive guide explores what happens when the pope dies, from the Novendiale mourning period to the secretive papal conclave, offering fresh insights into Vatican news and the future of the papacy.
With Pope Francis’ cause of death confirmed and the conclave approaching, this article answers your burning questions about the Vatican, Pope Francis’ funeral, and who is the new pope. Packed with trusted details from sources like Reuters and AP News, it’s your go-to resource for understanding this pivotal moment in 2025.
Who Was Pope Francis?
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was a transformative figure in the Catholic Church. Elected on March 13, 2013, he became the 266th pontiff, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, who shocked the world with his resignation. Choosing the name Francis to honor St. Francis of Assisi, he led 1.4 billion Catholics for over 12 years, earning admiration for his humility and advocacy.
His papacy stood out for:
Vatican Reforms: He probed the Vatican Bank for alleged corruption and formed an advisory council of cardinals.Global Advocacy: Francis spoke on climate change, poverty, and peace, notably condemning the Gaza crisis in his 2024 Christmas address and Easter 2025 message.
Church Abuse: He launched a papal commission to tackle clergy abuse, though critics felt he didn’t go far enough.
Living at Casa Santa Marta rather than the Apostolic Palace, Pope Francis’ young spirit and relatable style made him a beloved figure. Yet, his health struggles, including pneumonia in 2025, marked his final months. His last appearance on Easter Sunday at St. Peter’s Basilica saw him call for a Gaza ceasefire, a testament to his enduring commitment to peace.
What Was Pope Francis’ Cause of Death?
Did Pope Francis die on Easter? No, but his health declined sharply after Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025. Pope Francis’ cause of death was complications from double pneumonia, following a five-week hospitalization in Rome starting February 14, 2025. Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, his condition worsened, leading to his passing at Casa Santa Marta on April 21, 2025, as confirmed by Vatican news.
Recent reports from Reuters note that Pope Francis’ health had been fragile since late 2024, with respiratory issues limiting his public appearances. His time of death was not publicly detailed, but the Vatican emphasized he passed peacefully. This answers queries like “What time did Pope Francis die?” and “How did Pope Francis pass away?”
What Happens When the Pope Dies?
The death of Pope Francis triggers a series of sacred rituals and protocols, known as the sede vacante (vacant seat). This period, filled with mourning and preparation for the new pope, captivates the world. Here’s a clear breakdown of the next steps, addressing trending searches like “What happens when the pope dies?” and “Is the pope dead 2025?”
The Novendiale: Nine Days of Mourning
The Novendiale is a nine-day mourning period that begins after the pope’s death. Key events include:
- Public Viewing: Pope Francis’ body, dressed in papal vestments, will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica. Thousands will line up to pay respects, as seen during Pope John Paul II’s funeral in 2005.
- Prayer Services: Requiem masses will be held globally, with major services at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Global Focus: Media outlets like BBC News and EWTN will broadcast updates, drawing millions to Vatican City.
Pope Francis’ Funeral: A Historic Gathering
Pope Francis’ funeral, expected 4-6 days after his death, will be a global event in St. Peter’s Square. Led by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, it will draw:
- World Leaders: Presidents, prime ministers, and royalty, mirroring the 2005 funeral of Pope John Paul II, attended by 70 heads of state.
- Pilgrims: Millions are expected, with Vatican news estimating a similar turnout to past papal funerals.
- Coverage: Networks like NBC, Newsmax, and AP News will provide live updates.
Burial
Unlike most popes buried in the Vatican Grottoes, Pope Francis requested burial at Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome’s Esquilino district. According to a 2023 interview, he preferred:
- Single Coffin: A wooden coffin with a zinc lining, rejecting the traditional triple coffin.
- Historical Note: Only seven popes, last Clement IX in 1669, rest at Santa Maria Maggiore.
- Rogito: A scroll detailing his life will be included, per Vatican tradition.
This choice reflects Pope Francis’ simplicity, aligning with his Jesuit roots and St. Francis of Assisi inspiration.
Vatican News for funeral updates
Papal Conclave: Who Will Be the Next Pope?
The papal conclave is the Catholic Church’s secretive process to elect the next pope. Held in the Sistine Chapel, it’s a focal point for searches like “When will the conclave begin?” and “Who is going to be the next pope?” Here’s what you need to know.
When Does the Conclave Start?
The conclave typically begins 15-20 days after the pope’s death, around May 6-11, 2025, for Pope Francis. The College of Cardinals prepares during the sede vacante, ensuring all eligible voters gather in Vatican City.
How Is the New Pope Chosen?
The conclave follows a strict process:
Eligible Voters: About 120-130 cardinals under 80 vote, per Catholic News reports.
Voting Rounds: Up to four daily rounds, with ballots burned after each. Black smoke signals no decision; white smoke announces the new pope.
Two-Thirds Majority: A candidate needs two-thirds of votes. After 33 rounds, a run-off may occur.
Secrecy: The Sistine Chapel is sealed, ensuring confidentiality.
Top Candidates for the Next Pope
Speculation about Pope Francis’ successor is trending, with names like:
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy): Vatican Secretary of State, a diplomatic reformer.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): Charismatic, youth-focused, dubbed the “Asian Francis.”
Cardinal Timothy Dolan (United States): New York’s archbishop, media-savvy but less likely due to geopolitics.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell (Ireland/U.S.): A Francis ally, focused on family and laity.
Leading Candidates for Next Pope
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church prepares for a papal conclave, expected between May 6-11, 2025, to elect the next pope. The candidates below are leading cardinals considered for the papacy, each bringing unique strengths, roles, and achievements, while facing distinct challenges in leading the global Christian community of 1.4 billion Catholics.
| Cardinal Name | Country | Region | Strengths | Challenges | Age | Current Role | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pietro Parolin | Italy | Europe | Vatican insider, diplomatic skill | Seen as bureaucratic | 70 | Secretary of State | Negotiated Vatican-China bishop deal |
| Luis Antonio Tagle | Philippines | Asia | Global appeal, charismatic | Less administrative experience | 67 | Pro-Prefect, Dicastery for Evangelization | Led Caritas Internationalis during global crises |
| Timothy Dolan | United States | North America | Pastoral leadership, media savvy | U.S. bias in global Church | 75 | Archbishop of New York | Hosted papal visits to the U.S. |
| Kevin Farrell | Ireland/U.S. | Europe/North America | Reform-focused, Francis ally | Lower public profile | 77 | Prefect, Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life | Organized World Meeting of Families |
Pope Francis’ Legacy
Pope Francis’ 12-year papacy reshaped the Catholic Church. His choice to live at Casa Santa Marta and focus on Jesuits values like simplicity set him apart. His advocacy for Gaza, climate change, and interfaith dialogue made him a global figure, though not without controversy:
Clergy Abuse: Critics, per New York Times, argued he was slow to address systemic issues.
Progressive Stances: His views on divorce and interfaith ties sparked pushback from conservatives.
In 2025, X posts highlight his Easter 2025 Gaza ceasefire call, reflecting his enduring influence. A 2024 Pew Research poll found 68% of U.S. Catholics admired his compassion, answering “Who was Pope Francis?” with clarity.
Future of the Catholic Church
The next pope will shape the Church’s path on:
Global Growth: Expanding in Africa and Asia, per USCCB projections.
Social Issues: Addressing migration, gender, and climate, continuing Francis’ work.
Vatican Reform: Advancing transparency in Vatican City.
As the conclave nears, outlets like Reuters and AP News will track developments, answering “When will the new pope be elected?”
(FAQs)
When did Pope Francis die?
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, from pneumonia complications.
Did Pope Francis die on Easter?
No, he appeared on Easter Sunday (April 20, 2025) and died the next day.
How long was Pope Francis pope?
He served from March 13, 2013, to April 21, 2025, over 12 years.
Who is the pope now?
The papacy is vacant (sede vacante) until the conclave elects a new pope.
What happens when the pope dies?
The Novendiale mourning period begins, followed by a funeral and conclave to elect the next pope.
Who are the candidates for the next pope?
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Luis Antonio Tagle, Timothy Dolan, and Kevin Farrell are among the papabile.
Where will Pope Francis be buried?
At Santa Maria Maggiore, per his request, not the Vatican Grottoes.
When will the conclave start?
Around May 6-11, 2025, 15-20 days after his death.
How do they choose a new pope?
Cardinals under 80 vote in the Sistine Chapel until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority.
What was Pope Francis’ net worth?
As a Jesuit, he took a vow of poverty; popes have no personal wealth, per Vatican records.
Pope Francis’ death marks a turning point for the Catholic Church. What’s your take on his legacy, and who do you think will be the next pope? Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this article with friends for latest updates.
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