Journey to the Conclave: What Happens After the Death of a Pope?

Picture of Mary; the mother of Jesus.

Vatican City – The death of a pope marks not just the end of a papal reign but the beginning of one of the most sacred and consequential transitions in the Roman Catholic Church: the journey to the conclave.

Following the passing of the Holy Father, the Church enters a solemn period of mourning and preparation — a time guided by centuries-old traditions, canonical law, and deep spiritual reflection, culminating in the election of a new pontiff.

Day 1: The Moment of Death and the ‘Sede Vacante’

Upon the pope’s death, the Camerlengo — currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell — officially verifies the pontiff’s passing. Traditionally, this includes calling the pope three times by his baptismal name. Once confirmed, the Camerlengo informs the Cardinal Dean and then officially declares the Sede Vacante (“the seat is vacant”).

The pope’s Fisherman’s Ring and papal seal are ceremonially destroyed to prevent future misuse. The Vatican ceases all official diplomatic correspondence in the name of the deceased pope.

Days 2–9: Mourning and the Novemdiales

The Church observes nine days of mourning known as the Novemdiales, beginning with a Requiem Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica. During this time, flags in the Vatican are flown at half-staff, and black mourning banners adorn church properties worldwide.

The pope’s body lies in state, first in the Apostolic Palace and later in St. Peter’s Basilica, where thousands of mourners — clergy, heads of state, and lay faithful — line up to pay their respects.

Simultaneously, cardinals from around the world begin arriving in Rome.

They meet in General Congregations, daily gatherings where administrative duties are discussed, and initial discussions about the Church’s needs and the qualities of the next pope begin — although no formal campaigning is allowed.

Day 10–15: The Conclave Begins

Between 10 and 15 days after the pope’s death, once all cardinal-electors (those under age 80) have arrived, the conclave officially begins. The cardinal electors— proceed in a solemn procession into the Sistine Chapel, chanting “Veni, Creator Spiritus” to invoke the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

Once inside, the doors are sealed. The cardinals are now completely cut off from the outside world. No phones, media, or contact of any kind is permitted. The goal: total seclusion to ensure prayerful and undistracted discernment.

The Voting Process

Voting begins the next day. Each day includes up to four rounds of secret balloting. A candidate must receive a two-thirds majority to be elected. After each vote, the ballots are burned. Chemicals are added to produce black smoke (no pope) or white smoke (a successful election).

Outside in St. Peter’s Square, thousands wait in anticipation, eyes fixed on the Sistine Chapel chimney.

Habemus Papam: A New Era Begins

When a cardinal finally reaches the required majority, he is asked the ritual question: “Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?” Upon acceptance, he chooses a papal name.

Shortly after, white smoke billows into the Roman sky. Bells ring. Crowds erupt in applause.

Then, the cardinal proto-deacon appears on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and announces: “Habemus Papam — We have a Pope!”

Moments later, the new pontiff steps onto the balcony, offering his first Urbi et Orbi blessing to the city and the world, ushering in a new chapter of Catholic history.

This time between the death of a pope and the election of his successor is not only steeped in ritual but watched closely by the world — a reminder of the Catholic Church’s unique blend of tradition, mystery, and global relevance.

MICHAEL OPPONG-AMPONSAH