Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the newly appointed camerlengo, has taken on the responsibility of overseeing the Vatican's affairs in the wake of Pope Francis's passing. His duties include handling daily operations during the vacancy until a new pontiff is chosen, although he is restricted from making significant decisions affecting the Church.
Pope Francis Passes Away: Cardinal Kevin Farrell Steps In as Interim Leader
Pope Francis Passes Away: Cardinal Kevin Farrell Steps In as Interim Leader
Following the death of Pope Francis, Cardinal Kevin Farrell assumes the role of camerlengo, managing Vatican operations until a new pope is elected.
As far back as 2013, Francis’s election marked a new chapter for the Catholic Church, but now, Cardinal Farrell's leadership will guide the Vatican through this transitional phase. The College of Cardinals is set to decide on the future arrangements, while Farrell prepares for the ceremonial tasks ahead.
April 21, 2025, marked a significant moment in history as Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome, passed away at 7:35 AM, as announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, during a solemn ceremony. Cardinal Farrell, who is of Irish descent, expressed deep reverence for the pope, highlighting Francis's lifelong dedication to the Church and service to the Lord. As camerlengo, he gracefully took on the task of managing the Church's daily affairs during the period known as "Apostolica Sede Vacans," which refers to the time between the pope's death and the election of his successor.
In the coming days, Cardinal Farrell will preside over the formal rituals necessary to honor Pope Francis, including the certification of death and preparation for public viewing until the funeral, estimated to occur within four to six days post-death. He is tasked with ensuring that the pope's residence is secured and sealed, with his body remaining in the chapel of the Vatican guesthouse until the College of Cardinals finalizes plans for the funeral procession to St. Peter's Basilica.
Cardinal Farrell has a notable history of service within the Church, having held significant roles in the United States before his appointment to the Vatican. His previous titles include auxiliary bishop of Washington and bishop of Dallas, prior to moving to Rome under Pope Francis’s invitation in 2016. Recognized for his exceptional contributions, he was appointed as camerlengo in 2019 and named president of the Supreme Court of Vatican City State in 2023.
With Cardinal Farrell at the helm, the Vatican faces a pivotal moment as it prepares to transition leadership while honoring the legacy of Pope Francis.
April 21, 2025, marked a significant moment in history as Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome, passed away at 7:35 AM, as announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, during a solemn ceremony. Cardinal Farrell, who is of Irish descent, expressed deep reverence for the pope, highlighting Francis's lifelong dedication to the Church and service to the Lord. As camerlengo, he gracefully took on the task of managing the Church's daily affairs during the period known as "Apostolica Sede Vacans," which refers to the time between the pope's death and the election of his successor.
In the coming days, Cardinal Farrell will preside over the formal rituals necessary to honor Pope Francis, including the certification of death and preparation for public viewing until the funeral, estimated to occur within four to six days post-death. He is tasked with ensuring that the pope's residence is secured and sealed, with his body remaining in the chapel of the Vatican guesthouse until the College of Cardinals finalizes plans for the funeral procession to St. Peter's Basilica.
Cardinal Farrell has a notable history of service within the Church, having held significant roles in the United States before his appointment to the Vatican. His previous titles include auxiliary bishop of Washington and bishop of Dallas, prior to moving to Rome under Pope Francis’s invitation in 2016. Recognized for his exceptional contributions, he was appointed as camerlengo in 2019 and named president of the Supreme Court of Vatican City State in 2023.
With Cardinal Farrell at the helm, the Vatican faces a pivotal moment as it prepares to transition leadership while honoring the legacy of Pope Francis.
