Succession Process of the Pope

Verification of Death

• The Pope's death must be verified by the Camarlengo.
• Historically involved tapping the Pope's head with a silver hammer.
• Today, a doctor likely confirms the death, but the Camarlengo still oversees the process.

Period of Interregnum

• Begins once the Pope's death is confirmed.
• Most high-ranking clerics lose their jobs, similar to a presidential cabinet turnover.
• The Cardinal Vicar of Rome, Major Penitentiary, and Apostolic Nuncios remain in power.
• Camarlengo holds temporary stewardship over the Vatican.

Role of the Apostolic Penitentiary

• Essential for functions involving indulgences, conscience questions, and excommunications.

Funeral and Burial

• Nine days of masses and prayers, known as the "novendiales," are held for the deceased Pope.
• The Pope is traditionally buried in St. Peter's Basilica.

Election of a New Pope

• Managed by the College of Cardinals at the conclave.
• Conclave begins no earlier than 15 days after the Pope's death.

Structure of the College of Cardinals

• Divided into three ranks: Cardinal Bishops, Cardinal Priests, and Cardinal Deacons.
• Not necessarily aligned with the traditional ranks of bishops, priests, and deacons.

The Conclave Process

• Begins with a votive mass, prayers, and an oath of secrecy.
• Only Cardinals under 80 years old can vote.

Voting Procedure

• Ballots include the phrase "I elect for Supreme Pontiff" with a space for a name.
• Three scrutineers tally votes; three infirmary members collect votes from sick Cardinals; three revisers check the tally.
• Requires a 2/3 majority to elect a new Pope.
• If no decision after 26 votes, the rules may allow for a simple majority.

Post-Election Process

• The elected individual is asked if they accept the role and what name they choose to be called.
• If the elected isn’t a bishop, they must be ordained before being announced.
• The new Pope is introduced and gives the apostolic blessing.