The time of the 'sede vacante' (empty chair) begins with the death of a pope and ends with the election of a new one. It encompasses three phases: pre-funeral activities, a mourning period with daily masses, and the conclave for choosing the new pope. During this time, the Vatican alters its emblem to signify the vacancy. Pope Francis's funeral is scheduled within a traditional six-day period, and notably, he will be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore rather than St. Peter's, marking a significant break from tradition.
The period of 'sede vacante' begins with a pope's death and concludes with the election of a new pope, involving significant rituals and symbols in the Catholic Church.
During the mourning period, the Vatican replaces its official emblem with a special coat of arms symbolizing the vacancy, featuring the crossed keys of St. Peter.
Pope Francis's funeral will take place within six days of his death, a traditional time frame that aligns with past papal funerals, highlighting the structured nature of this solemn phase.
For the first time in nearly 150 years, Pope Francis will be buried in a simple tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore, deviating from the tradition of St. Peter's Basilica.
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