Following the Pope’s death, there are activities that usually take place before a new Pope is elected. Here are the series of activities.
Death confirmation
The Pope’s death is officially confirmed by the Camerlengo (Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church). He declares the Pope dead after calling his baptismal name thrice without getting any response. The Papal ring (ring of fisherman), a signed used to seal official documents, is destroyed by the Camerlengo in the presence of cardinals to prevent forgery and signify the end of the Pope’s authority.
Official Announcement
The Vatican makes an official public announcement and the mourning customs, which include flying of flags at half-staff in some places.
Mourning
The period of official mourning lasts for 9 days (novemdiales). The body is prepared and displayed in St. Peter’s Basilica for public veneration.
Funeral
The burial takes place within 4-6 days after the Pope’s death. According to customs, the Pope is buried in the crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, although he may request to be buried elsewhere.
Sede Vacante (Vacant See)
This is the period between the Pope’s death and the election of a new Pope. During this period, major church decisions are put on hold, except for routine matters that are handled by the Camerlengo.
Conclave Preparation
The College of Cardinals from around the world assemble in Rome. Between 15-20 days after the Pope’s death, Conclave begins the election of a new Pope. Only Cardinals less than 80 years old are eligible to vote.
The Conclave (Papal Election)
This is held in the Sistine Chapel under strict secrecy. Cardinals vote up to four times a day in secret ballots until someone receives a 2/3rds majority. After a successful vote, the elected cardinal is asked if he accepts the canonical election as Supreme Pontiff. If he affirms, he chooses a Papal name. Black smoke from the Sistine Chapel indicates no Pope has been elected, while white smoke indicates a new Pope has been chosen
Announcement of the New Pope
The Cardinal proto-deacon steps onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica and declares “Habemus Papam!” meaning “We have a Pope!”. The new Pope then appears and gives his first Urbi et Orbi blessing.