On April 21, 2025, Pope Francis, the first Pope from South America, died at the age of 88. His death occurred at 7:35 p.m., which resulted in the entry into the sede vacante period, the time erstwhile the Holy See remains unfilled and the faithful await the election of a fresh pope.
During the sede vacante in the Catholic Church, any changes happen in the way the liturgy is performed. 1 of them is the omission of the pope's name in Eucharistic prayer. The priest only prays in the intention of the diocesan bishop, utilizing the words "...together with our bishop N." The name of the Pope, who has held this post so far, is no longer mentioned.
Another change is the addition of a peculiar call for the deceased pope in the prayer of the faithful. The priest who performs Mass and the faithful ask God for mercy and the joy of eternal life. There may besides be an intention for the light of the Holy Spirit for cardinals who will choose a fresh pope.
Pope Francis died in the octave of Easter, so the Holy Mass is not celebrated on the form for the deceased pope. Priests are besides not dressed in liturgical robes of purple color, but wear white robes, specified as in Easter Oct. erstwhile the fresh Pope is elected, priests and believers will pray for him at Mass.
According to 2022 figures, the Catholic Church has about 1.36 billion followers worldwide. In Poland it is about 38.2 million people, or about 99% of the population of the country. The election of a fresh pope will so be an event of large importance to the Catholic Church and its faithful.
The process of choosing a fresh pope, known as a conclave, is always a very crucial and liable task. It will be held at the earliest 15 and at the latest 20 days after the death of the head of the Church, which has departed. During this time, cardinals will gotta decide who will become the fresh pope.
It is worth reminding that Pope Francis was the first Pope from South America. His selection in 2013 was a large event in the Catholic Church. During his pontificate, Pope Francis was known for his openness and dialog with another religions and cultures. His death is so a large failure to the Catholic Church and its faithful.
Due to the death of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church in Poland plans many masses and services for the late Pope. It will be an chance to pray and reflect on the life and activities of Pope Francis.
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The death of Pope Francis: Sede Vacante time in the Catholic Church
