POPE FRANCIS HAS DIED!!

In the early hours of today, April 21, 2025, it was announced that Jorge Mario Bergoglio has passed away, according to a spokesperson from the Vatican.

What is the next protocol?

The ritual and protocol that Catholic authorities carry out in the event of the death of a sitting Pope are as follows:

Vatican Protocol if a Pope Dies

According to Chapter V of the Apostolic Constitution, in the event that a sitting Pope dies, there will be nine consecutive days of funeral services for the repose of his soul.

Afterwards, the bells of St. Peter's Basilica will be rung while forensic experts from the Institute of Legal Medicine of the University of Rome prepare the body for preservation and dress it for exposure to the Catholic faithful.

The body of the Pontiff will be placed in a three-layer coffin made of cypress, lead, and walnut.

A crucifix and an open Bible will be placed on the coffin.

Throughout this process, photographs of the body are not allowed, whether it is in a sickbed or deceased.

The room and study occupied by the Pope will be closed by the Camarlengo and will not be reopened until a new Pontiff is voted and elected.

As a head of state, it is expected that international representatives will be present at the Vatican, where he will be buried after a state funeral.