A stroke was the cause of death of Pope Francis, according to the Vatican’s death certificate.
The death was confirmed via an electrocardiogram.
“I declare that the causes of death, to the best of my knowledge and belief, are as stated,” details the document signed by Arcangeli.
Francis died after more than two months of suffering from severe respiratory problems that forced him to remain hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for 38 days, until March 23.
According to his medical records, Francis had suffered an episode of acute respiratory failure due to bilateral microbial pneumonia, as well as multiple bronchitis, hypertension, and diabetes.
After the death or resignation of a pope, the College of Cardinals of the Catholic Church meets in the Vatican to elect a new leader in a papal conclave.
However, a papal conclave does not necessarily function the same way most organizations elect a new leader.
Why is it called a papal conclave?
The gathering to elect a new pope, also known as the bishop of Rome, is called a conclave because it is a private meeting. The events that take place during the conclave and the cardinals’ vote counts are not made public.
When is a papal conclave held?
A papal conclave typically takes place between 15 and 20 days after the death of a pope.
Religion and Spirituality
In the case of a pope’s resignation, which is historically uncommon for the Church but occurred in 2013 when Pope Benedict XVI stepped down, the conclave begins approximately two weeks after the pope leaves office.
Where is a papal conclave held?
The papal conclave is held in the Sistine Chapel, in Vatican City. Only the College of Cardinals may enter.
What is the College of Cardinals?
The College of Cardinals is made up of Church officials who are “appointed by the Holy Father (Pope) to serve as his principal assistants and advisors in the central administration of Church affairs.”
It should be noted that only cardinals under the age of 80 may participate in the conclave.
How do the cardinals elect a new pope?
The cardinals meet before the papal conclave to discuss the future of the Church. Campaigning for a papal candidate is not allowed.
The cardinals then begin voting for a new pope, which typically takes two to three days.
How is a new pope announced?
At the end of each voting session, the ballots are placed in the Sistine Chapel’s stove and sent out as either white or black smoke. Black smoke indicates that the cardinals are still deliberating, while white smoke means a new pope has been elected.
Image: T51
