VATICAN CITY – The Catholic Church has entered a period of transition following the death of Pope Francis on April 21 at the age of 88. The late Pope, who passed away a day after making an Easter Sunday appearance at St. Peter's Square, died after suffering a stroke, according to the Vatican. The news has triggered the start of the interregnum, or sede vacante ("vacant seat"), a period of mourning and preparation for the election of a new pontiff.
The Interregnum: A Period of Mourning and Preparation
In accordance with tradition, the Vatican has commenced the novendiales, a nine-day mourning period. Following this, the process of electing a new Pope will begin within 15 to 20 days. The responsibility for organizing the election, known as the conclave, falls to the camerlengo, a cardinal within the Catholic Church.
Prior to the election itself, the cardinals will convene for general congregations to discuss the challenges facing the Church. All cardinals who are not legitimately prevented are required to attend these congregations, as outlined in the Apostolic Constitution.
The Conclave: Secrecy and Voting
The conclave, an event shrouded in secrecy, will see the cardinal electors housed in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where Pope Francis resided. Communication with the outside world is strictly prohibited, ensuring the integrity of the voting process.
The voting process involves 120 cardinals under the age of 80, each casting a secret ballot. The ballots, inscribed with "Eligo in summum pontificem" ("I elect as supreme pontiff"), are placed in urns and counted. A two-thirds majority is required for a candidate to be elected Pope.
The public is informed of the progress of the conclave through smoke signals. White smoke indicates that a new Pope has been chosen, while black smoke signifies that another round of voting is necessary.
Potential Successors
While the selection of the next Pope remains uncertain, several cardinals have emerged as potential candidates. The College of Cardinals Report has identified 22 cardinals as "papabili," or most likely to be elected. Some of the names frequently mentioned include:
* Jean-Marc Aveline (France): Known for his support of migrants and interfaith dialogue.
* Joseph Tobin (United States): A progressive voice, advocating for LGBTQ+ Catholics, women in the Church, and migrants.
* Pietro Parolin (Italy): The Vatican's Secretary of State, with expertise in geopolitical issues.
The election of Pope Francis' successor will be a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, with the new leader set to guide the institution through a rapidly changing world.
