This is the format for the conclave: the tradition, rules and procedures to choose a new Pope

Pope Francis was laid to rest on 26 April 2025, following his death on 21 April. Just the day before his passing he was seen in public blessing the crowds at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square for Easter Sunday.

The 88-year-old lost part of a lung during his youth due to a respiratory infection and his health had deteriorated in recent years. While in hospital prior to his death, Pope Francis had suffered two episodes of “acute respiratory failure” and his condition had worsened.

His passing was mourned by the Church and worshippers around the world as well as setting into motion a unique set of rituals and rules to govern the period between leaders.

What happens when a Pope dies?

Upon the event of a Pope’s death, the passing is confirmed by the camerlengo, a senior official at the Vatican. The camerlengo – currently Irish-born Cardinal Kevin Farell – visits the Pope’s body and calls out his name to rouse him, a ceremonial part of the ritual once doctors medically confirm his death.

Once the death is confirmed, the pontiff’s signet ring is destroyed to signal the end of his reign. The camerlengo then informs the College of Cardinals of the death and the world is informed via a statement to the media.

The Catholic Church then begins a nine-day period of mourning, known as the Novendiale. In Italy, this is typically considered a period of national mourning.

In the past, Popes have chosen more ritualistic death rites but Pope Francis specified that he wanted a more minimalist approach. He was blessed, dressed in papal vestments and laid in an open coffin, allowing mourners to pay their respects at St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Pope was then be buried, with a funeral held at St. Peter’s Square. The traditional resting place for Popes is the Vatican Grottoes, where close to 100 Popes are laid to rest, however, Pope Francis has opted for Santa Maria Maggiore basilica, one of his favourite churches.

How is the next Pope chosen?

The matter of Pope Francis’ replacement is decided by the College of Cardinals, who convene at the Sistine Chapel for a conclave. Cardinals younger than 80 will be eligible to vote for the next pontiff with around 120 members making their choice in secret by writing a name on a ballot paper.

Voting continues in rounds until one name has received at least two-thirds support, with up to four rounds of votes taking place per day. The most recent conclave, the 2013 election of Pope Francis, took about 24 hours and five ballots before he received the necessary majority.

Updates on this process are issued via the famous Sistine Chapel chimney. When black smoke is emitted a new Pope has not yet been chosen, but white smoke indicates that the next pontiff has been elected.

A representative of the College of Cardinals appears on the main balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and says, in Latin, ’Habemus papam’, or “We have a pope.” Finally, the process concludes with the newly elected Pope donning a white cassock and stepping out onto that iconic balcony to give his first address as the leader of the Catholic Church.

Regarding the current situation, we’ll soon know Pope Francis’ successor...

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