Upon the death of a pope

With the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, the Universal Church and dioceses around the world, enters a period of mourning and prayer. While the primary responsibilities during this time fall to the College of Cardinals and the Apostolic See, each diocese has its own appropriate liturgical and pastoral responses.

Here’s what typically occurs in a diocese:

Official notification and Communication

First, the Apostolic Nuncio typically informs the bishops of the pope’s death formally. The diocesan bishop then communicates the news to clergy, religious, and faithful, often through an official statement.

Liturgical actions

The bishop celebrates a Requiem Mass (Mass for the Dead) for the repose of the soul of His Holiness, typically at the cathedral. Parishes may be encouraged to do the same. Special prayers for the dead are added to the Liturgy of the Hours and Masses. The Eucharistic Prayer may include specific commemorations for the pope. The Cathedral and parish bells may toll in mourning, traditionally a slow, solemn ringing.

Period of mourning

A period of mourning is observed. The diocesan website and buildings may display symbols of mourning (e.g., black drapes, papal flags flown at half-mast). A book of condolence may be available at a suitable site for the People of God to sign.

Catechesis and reflection

The bishop may offer a pastoral letter or homily reflecting on the life and ministry of the deceased pope. The faithful may be encouraged to learn more about the pope’s teachings and legacy through catechetical sessions or public talks.

Unity with the Holy See

The diocese joins the Universal Church in prayer for the election of a new pope, invoking the Holy Spirit’s guidance. During the interregnum (sede vacante), the pope’s name is omitted from the Eucharistic Prayer until a new successor is elected.

Media and public engagement

The diocese may collaborate with media outlets to provide commentary, host prayer vigils, and respond to the public’s questions. Statements often emphasise unity, continuity, and hope.

Requiem Mass (Mass for the Dead) for the pope

The bishop should celebrate a diocesan Requiem Mass, preferably at the cathedral. The Requiem Mass is celebrated according to the Order of Christian Funerals, selecting readings and prayers suitable for a pope. The Papal Flag may be draped in black and placed near the sanctuary.

Suggested elements include:

• Entrance Chant: e.g., Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine (Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord).
• Opening Collect: From the Mass for a deceased bishop or pope.
• Liturgy of the Word: May include Isaiah 25:6–9, Romans 6:3–9, and John 11:21–27.
• Eucharistic Prayer: Includes commemoration of the deceased pope. If Eucharistic Prayer I is used, the pope’s name is omitted from the list of the living and can be added in the list of the dead.
• Final Commendation and Farewell: Incorporated as in a funeral liturgy, with incense and sprinkling of the casket or symbolic gesture (if the pope’s body is not present).

Memorial Masses (Optional)

Other Masses may be celebrated in the days leading up to the funeral in Rome. Clergy and religious communities may celebrate additional Requiem Masses privately or publicly.

Liturgy of the Hours

The Office for the Dead is prayed in common, especially Morning Prayer (Lauds) and Evening Prayer (Vespers). Compline may be prayed with appropriate antiphons and prayers, including responsories that reflect mourning, e.g., “Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.”

Eucharistic prayers at regular Masses

Until a new pope is elected, the phrase “Francis, our Pope” is omitted from the Eucharistic Prayer and the diocesan bishop is still named as usual. An intercession may be added to the Universal Prayer (Prayers of the Faithful) such as: “For the repose of the soul of Pope N., that he may be granted the reward of faithful service, and for the Church, as she awaits a new shepherd, let us pray to the Lord…”

Exposition and Holy Hours (Optional)

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament may be offered with prayers for the deceased pope and for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the upcoming conclave.

Sede Vacante: Ritual Notes

During the interregnum, no papal blessing is imparted, even by bishops. No references to the pope are made in the liturgical books, and the Papal coat of arms is covered or replaced with a sede vacante symbol in cathedrals and chanceries.