Papal Funerals, Conclave Rules, and Delaying Papal Acts

On The Patrick Madrid Show, Patrick offered a thorough and insightful explanation of what happens in the Church following the death of a pope, including the origins of the conclave, the ceremonial traditions that accompany the pope’s passing, and why upcoming events like canonizations are postponed.

In the early Church, the Bishop of Rome was elected by the clergy and the faithful of the city itself. Saints like Cyprian of Carthage supported this as the ideal method, one conducted in the presence of the people. However, over time, this shifted as kings, emperors, and outside political forces attempted to influence the election. Eventually, the Church established the modern conclave (from the Latin cum clavis, meaning “with a key”) where cardinals are locked inside the Sistine Chapel to vote in secrecy.

Following the death of Pope Francis, the Church has entered a phase called the interregnum—the period between pontificates. Madrid outlined the rites that follow: the Camerlengo, accompanied by the papal physician, enters the pope’s room and calls his baptismal name three times (“Jorge… Jorge… Jorge”) to confirm his passing. The Fisherman’s Ring and official seals are destroyed to prevent misuse, and the body is vested and transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica, beginning the Novemdiales, the nine days of mourning and public prayer.

One major consequence of the pope’s death is the postponement of events requiring papal authority, most notably in this case, the canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis. Madrid explained that canonizations are considered papal acts, meaning they can only be performed by a reigning pope. While some debate whether canonizations are acts of papal infallibility, the key point is that without a pope, the Church cannot canonize. Thus, the canonization is not canceled—just paused until the next pontiff takes office.

Cardinals from around the world are now arriving in Rome to prepare for the conclave. As Madrid noted, even cardinals from remote regions like Cardinal Zen of Hong Kong are making great efforts to arrive in time. Once mourning concludes, the world will turn its eyes to the Sistine Chapel as the conclave commences.

In the meantime, the Church waits, praying, reflecting, and preparing for the future.

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At this pivotal moment in our Church history, don’t just observe the conclave – understand it, experience it, and pray through it with Relevant Radio at Conclave2025.com.