On April 21, 2025, the Roman Catholic Church mourns the loss of Pope Francis, with Cardinal Kevin Farrell designated to oversee church affairs until the election of a new pontiff.
Pope Francis Passes Away: Cardinal Kevin Farrell Steps In as Administrator
Pope Francis Passes Away: Cardinal Kevin Farrell Steps In as Administrator
The death of Pope Francis marks a pivotal moment for the Vatican as Cardinal Kevin Farrell assumes control of everyday operations.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell has taken on the solemn role of managing the Vatican's operations following the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 21, 2025. Farrell, as camerlengo, delivered the tragic announcement stating, “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.” As bells tolled across Rome, Farrell reflected on the pontiff's lifelong dedication to the Church.
In this transitional period known as the "Apostolica Sede Vacans," the camerlengo is responsible for the routine administration of the Vatican; however, significant decision-making remains on hold until a new pope is elected. Cardinal Farrell will preside over the formal announcement of the pope's death and manage the procedures surrounding the viewing and public memorial of Francis, which may commence as early as Wednesday after the College of Cardinals convenes to establish the schedule.
The late Pope's body will rest in state in the chapel of the Vatican guesthouse, with arrangements for public viewing leading up to a funeral service expected to occur four to six days following his death. This period offers the Catholic community a chance to pay their respects to a leader whose impact resonates worldwide.
Born in Ireland, Cardinal Farrell, now 77, has a lengthy history within the church, having served in various capacities across the United States before being called to Rome by Pope Francis in 2016. His ascent to the role of camerlengo occurred in 2019, and he has also served as the president of the Supreme Court of Vatican City State. Farrell's influence is further underscored by his familial connection; he is the brother of Bishop Brian Farrell, who held a significant position within the Vatican prior to his retirement in 2024. As the church navigates this important transition, the eyes of the world remain fixed on the steps leading to the election of the next pontiff and the future direction of the Church.
In this transitional period known as the "Apostolica Sede Vacans," the camerlengo is responsible for the routine administration of the Vatican; however, significant decision-making remains on hold until a new pope is elected. Cardinal Farrell will preside over the formal announcement of the pope's death and manage the procedures surrounding the viewing and public memorial of Francis, which may commence as early as Wednesday after the College of Cardinals convenes to establish the schedule.
The late Pope's body will rest in state in the chapel of the Vatican guesthouse, with arrangements for public viewing leading up to a funeral service expected to occur four to six days following his death. This period offers the Catholic community a chance to pay their respects to a leader whose impact resonates worldwide.
Born in Ireland, Cardinal Farrell, now 77, has a lengthy history within the church, having served in various capacities across the United States before being called to Rome by Pope Francis in 2016. His ascent to the role of camerlengo occurred in 2019, and he has also served as the president of the Supreme Court of Vatican City State. Farrell's influence is further underscored by his familial connection; he is the brother of Bishop Brian Farrell, who held a significant position within the Vatican prior to his retirement in 2024. As the church navigates this important transition, the eyes of the world remain fixed on the steps leading to the election of the next pontiff and the future direction of the Church.
