What Happens During a Pope’s Funeral?
The funeral of a pope is one of the most solemn and symbolically rich events in the Catholic Church. Grounded in centuries of tradition and steeped in sacred ritual, it not only marks the passing of the Church’s highest earthly shepherd but also serves as a moment of global reflection and renewal.
The Death of a Pope: The Immediate Steps
Upon the death of a pope, the Camerlengo (Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church) is the first to act. His duty is to confirm the pope’s death. Traditionally, he would call the pope three times by his baptismal name. Upon no response, the pope is declared dead.
The Fisherman’s Ring, used to seal official documents, is destroyed in the presence of other cardinals. This symbolizes the end of the deceased pontiff’s authority.
The Vatican then declares the “sede vacante” (the seat is vacant), initiating the period before a new pope is elected.
The Ritual of Mourning: Novemdiales
A nine-day period of mourning known as the Novemdiales begins. Each day includes a Requiem Mass offered in St. Peter’s Basilica, with increasing attendance as the days progress. Flags are lowered, bells toll, and prayers rise.
The pope lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, often in red vestments, holding a rosary. Pilgrims stream through in the thousands, sometimes millions, to pay their respects.
The Funeral Mass
The pope’s funeral Mass usually takes place on the fifth to seventh day after death and is celebrated by the Dean of the College of Cardinals. The ceremony includes:
- Gospel and homily emphasizing faith and resurrection
- Final commendation and farewell rites
- The casket is sealed and marked with the papal coat of arms
The casket is traditionally made of three nested coffins:
- Cypress (symbol of humility)
- Zinc (for preservation)
- Oak (representing dignity)
He is then buried in the Vatican Grottoes, beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, near or alongside his predecessors.
What Scripture Says About Death and Leadership
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” — Psalm 116:15
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
These verses often echo through the walls of the basilica as the Church honors a man who carried the cross of leadership until the end.
Global Attention and the Call to Unity
A papal funeral is also a diplomatic event, with heads of state, religious leaders, and pilgrims of all faiths gathering to witness history.
In this moment, the Church speaks not only to its followers but to the world. The death of a pope is a call for humility, repentance, unity, and spiritual renewal.
