Mon Apr 21 08:46:56 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Dies, Setting in Motion Succession Process

**Vatican City, April 21, 2025** – Pope Francis passed away today, triggering a centuries-old process to elect his successor. The death of the pontiff has initiated a nine-day period of mourning in both the Vatican and Italy. Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, the Camerlengo (Cardinal Chamberlain), has officially confirmed the Pope’s death and will serve as the Vatican’s administrator until a new Pope is elected.

Traditional rituals will be observed, including the destruction of the Pope’s Fisherman’s Ring, the sealing of the papal apartments, and a state funeral led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals. Unlike previous Popes, Francis has requested a simpler burial, to be held at Rome’s Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica instead of the Vatican Grottoes. His body will lie in state, but not displayed on a catafalque as is customary.

The election of a new Pope, a process dramatized in the film “Conclave,” will begin approximately two to three weeks after the funeral. The College of Cardinals will convene in the Sistine Chapel for a conclave, where they will vote in secret ballot until a two-thirds majority is reached. The outcome of each ballot will be signaled by smoke from the chimney – black for no decision, white for a new Pope.

Once elected, the new Pope will appear on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to address the world, announcing the start of a new era for the Catholic Church. The world watches with anticipation as the process unfolds, marking a significant moment in Catholic history.

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