Pope Francis I has died. What happens now?
Apr 21, 2025•8 min
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Summary
This episode discusses the immediate aftermath of the death of Pope Francis I, including the ancient rituals that follow a papal death. It then delves into the process of electing a new pope, known as the Conclave. An expert breaks down how the College of Cardinals meets, the dynamics and factors that influence their decision, and what to expect regarding the timing and outcome of this historic selection.Episode description
On Monday morning in Rome Cardinal Kevin Farrell Camerlengo or Cardinal Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church announced the death of Pope Francis I.
That was followed some 17 hours later by the rite of ascertainment. A formal acknowledgement of Francis' death...and the transfer of his body to his coffin.
And it's one a few of the many centuries-old rituals that will play out over the next several days as the church mourns Pope Francis.
There will be the mourning of the faithful as Francis' body lies in St. Peter's Basilica. A funeral, where Francis will be remembered by his fellow priests, followers and world leaders. Then, the Conclave where the College of Cardinals will meet to choose his successor.
Pope Francis has died at 88. Now the church has to chart a course without his leadership. Who will be his successor, and what path will he choose?
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That was followed some 17 hours later by the rite of ascertainment. A formal acknowledgement of Francis' death...and the transfer of his body to his coffin.
And it's one a few of the many centuries-old rituals that will play out over the next several days as the church mourns Pope Francis.
There will be the mourning of the faithful as Francis' body lies in St. Peter's Basilica. A funeral, where Francis will be remembered by his fellow priests, followers and world leaders. Then, the Conclave where the College of Cardinals will meet to choose his successor.
Pope Francis has died at 88. Now the church has to chart a course without his leadership. Who will be his successor, and what path will he choose?
For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.
Email us at considerthis@npr.org.
See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.
NPR Privacy Policy
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