Who is Making Decisions in the Absence of a Pope?

When Pope Francis passed away, many listeners—like John from Illinois—began wondering: Who’s in charge now? On The Patrick Madrid Show, Patrick answered that very question with clarity, history, and a touch of humor.

When the pope dies, the Vatican doesn’t shut down completely—but it does hit “pause mode.” Most major functions of the Apostolic See are suspended. Enter the camerlengo, currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell, appointed by Pope Francis. His job is to oversee day-to-day essentials and ceremonial duties, such as overseeing the transfer of the Pope’s body and preparing for the upcoming conclave.

Basic operations continue—like keeping the lights on in Vatican City—but anything requiring papal authority completely freezes. That includes appointing new bishops or cardinals, issuing excommunications reserved to the pope, approving canonizations, and making major decisions like choosing locations for World Youth Day.

In other words, if it needs the Pope’s signature, it’s not happening right now.

No pope can choose his own successor—this isn’t a royal line of succession. The next Holy Father will be chosen by the College of Cardinals in a conclave, guided by prayer and the Holy Spirit. And yes, we’ll be watching the chimney of the Sistine Chapel for white smoke to rise.

Patrick reminded us that while many only remember Pope Francis or perhaps Pope Benedict, the papacy has a long and steady history—266 popes, stretching back to St. Peter himself. Even in this quiet interlude, the Church remains calm, reverent, and unshaken.

For now, we wait. We pray. And we trust. The next chapter in Church history is about to be written—by the Holy Spirit and the next Vicar of Christ.

Want to receive more information about the life and legacy of Pope Francis, as well as updates on the upcoming conclave? Sign up for SmokeWatch here.

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.