Photographs Reveal Pope Francis' Coffin in Open State
Gearing Up for a New Pope
It's a solemn day as we bid farewell to Pope Francis. The Vatican has released heartfelt images of his open casket, showcasing the straightforwardness of the holy leader in the private chapel of the Pope.
Two Swiss Guards and a cleric are standing steadfast near the casket, while Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, Archbishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli, Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, and Lubomir Welnitz are also present in the room.
On Tuesday, the first General Congregation of the Cardinals will be held, with those residing in Rome participating. These congregations pave the way for the conclave and help decide the next steps for the papal election.
Moving the Pope's Body to St. Peter's Basilica
The transfer of the body to St. Peter's Basilica might take place on Wednesday, April 23, as announced by the Vatican press office. Assuming the honoring of the deceased lasts for three days, as is customary, the funeral ceremony could occur later this week, presumably on Saturday, April 26. The funeral will be led by the esteemed Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, whom Pope Francis had previously confirmed in his role. Francis will find his final resting place in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
At the latest 20 days after the death, cardinals worldwide who have not yet reached the age of 80 will be required to appear for the conclave. Currently, 135 cardinals meet the eligibility criterion to cast their votes. The conclave can end swiftly or extend for extensive periods with no fixed duration. The new Pope must secure a two-thirds majority to be elected.
If none of the candidates amasses the required majority, black smoke will ascend from a chimney. A bright smoke signifies: a new Pope has been elected.
The funeral rites and conclave proceedings are deeply rooted in long-standing traditions of the Catholic Church, involved in a structured process that guarantees a solemn and secure transition of papal authority after the passing of the pope.
Enrichment Insights:- The process of transitioning the papal authority follows a long-established tradition and structure within the Catholic Church.- After the pope's death, his body is typically transferred to St. Peter's Basilica for public veneration. Paramount logistical and ceremonial requirements determine the transfer timing.- The College of Cardinals, Vatican City State, and governing body of the Catholic Church work together to organize the process.- Traditionally, the conclave commences 15-20 days after the pope's death.- The official mourning period occurs during the initial nine days, followed by delegation assignments for the conclave.- Staff members, including sacristans, medical personnel, and security officials, take an oath of secrecy before the start of the conclave.- The conclave begins with a prayer service and procession to the Sistine Chapel.- Each cardinal elector swears an oath of secrecy and votes for the pope at the start of the conclave. Four rounds of voting are held per day until a new pope is elected.- A two-thirds majority is required for election, and rules may be modified if after several ballots no result is reached.- The conclave ensures a solemn and secure transition of papal authority after the death of the pope.
The subsequent political events surrounding the election of a new Pope are closely intertwined with the general news. A focus will be on the proceedings of the General Congregation of Cardinals and the subsequent conclave, which are slated to determine the next leader of the Catholic Church.
Politics and general news will merge as the world awaits the outcome of the papal election, as cardinals from around the globe gather for the conclave to secure a two-thirds majority for the election of the new Pope.
