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Podcast: The papal transition: What happens next | TribLIVE.com
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Podcast: The papal transition: What happens next

Zachary Gibson
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AP
The body of Pope Francis is placed into St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, Wednesday, April 23, 2025, where he will lie in state for three days.
8434681_web1_8432977-791a6fee245844dba476005366ae64fa
Vatican Media via AP
The body of late Pope Francis is carried in an open coffin through St. Peter’s Square to St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, where the deceased pontiff will lie in state for three days.
8434681_web1_8432977-1a3e466428d54378b62821e8286aa68d
Pool via AP
The body of Pope Francis is carried into St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, Wednesday, April 23, 2025, where he will lie in state for three days.
8434681_web1_8430040-7289b89e0c2f43899aec1eb4c079a5d1
AP
Cardinal Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi, Archbishop of Tokyo, left, is congratulated by fellow cardinals after being elevated by Pope Francis during a solemn Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, Dec. 7, 2024.

Many mourners are taking a closer look at one of the most sacred and secretive transitions in the world — the period following the death of a pope.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, died on April 21, 2025, at age 88. Since his death, the Vatican has entered a period known as sede vacante, or “the vacant seat.” Centuries-old rituals are now underway to choose his successor.

From the sealing of rooms to the appearance of white smoke and the taking of solemn oaths, this episode unpacks the traditions, terminology and timeline that shape the path to a new pope.

TribLive reporter Renatta Signorini joins host Zac Gibson to detail the process.

This is “From the Newsroom.”

Zachary Gibson is a Tribune-Review digital producer. You can contact Zachary at zgibson@triblive.com.

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