Following the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88, the Catholic Church enters the period known as “sede vacante”, and with it the rigorous protocol that regulates papal funerals is activated.
According to current canonical regulations, the pontiff’s funeral must be held between the fourth and sixth day after his death, which places the date between Friday, April 25 and Sunday, April 27.
Pope Francis’ funeral
This is established by the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, the liturgical document that details the funeral rite of a pope, and the apostolic constitution Universi Dominici Gregis, which governs the functioning of the Vatican during the transition between pontificates.
The exact date of the funeral will be decided by the College of Cardinals, whose first general congregation is convened for this Tuesday.
During that meeting, in addition to organizing the ceremonies, the logistical preparations for the celebration of the future conclave will begin.
Apartment sealing: tradition that protects legacy
On Monday evening, April 21, several of the rites marking the end of the pontificate were held.
The Cardinal Camerlengo, the American Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, led the rite of confirmation of death at Casa Santa Marta, Francis’ usual residence during his pontificate.
Shortly thereafter, the body was placed in the coffin, fulfilling the pope’s wish to be veiled in the chapel of his residence before its public exposition.
The papal apartments were then officially sealed, both in Casa Santa Marta and in the Apostolic Palace, although Francis never lived in the latter because of his well-known preference for a simple life close to the people.
The sealing consists of sealing the access doors with red tape and official sealing wax, and is intended to protect documents, personal effects and liturgical belongings of the pontiff.
This procedure is an essential part of the protocol and prevents any undue access while the immediate future of the Holy See is being defined.
Cancellation of the symbols of the pontificate
In keeping with tradition, the Cardinal Camerlengo will also be responsible for annulling the Fisherman’s Ring – the pope’s personal seal.
As well as the official pontifical seal, symbols of his authority, which must be rendered useless immediately after death to prevent the fraudulent use of documents or decrees.
Next steps: public exhibition and funeral
Buzzy
Francis’ body will be transferred this Wednesday, April 23, to St. Peter’s Basilica, where it will remain exposed to the public so that the faithful can pay homage to him.
The funeral, which will probably be presided over by the dean of the College of Cardinals, will take place in St. Peter’s Square, as is tradition, and will be broadcast worldwide.
Francis’ death has marked the end of a 12-year pontificate.
His pontificate was marked by his closeness to the poor, his drive for church reform, and his commitment to interfaith dialogue and social justice
QueOnnda. com.
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