The death of a pope initiates a centuries-old process. The camerlengo, currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell, certifies the death and manages the Holy See until a successor is chosen. The body lies in state at St. Peter's Basilica, followed by a funeral and burial within four to six days. A nine-day mourning period precedes a conclave of cardinals under 80, who elect the new pope. The process involves secret ballots, burned to signal the election with white or black smoke. Over 130 cardinals are eligible to vote.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.