Following the death of Pope Francis, Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, a senior Vatican official originally from Dublin, has been tasked with overseeing the Catholic Church until a new pope is elected.
Born and raised in the Irish-speaking, working-class neighborhood of Drimnagh, the 77-year-old Farrell has risen to become one of the most influential figures in the Vatican. He now serves as the Camerlengo, the official responsible for managing the Church’s affairs during the sede vacante—the period between popes.
While Cardinal Farrell has taken a more conservative stance on certain issues—most notably his opposition to same-sex marriage, which contrasts with Pope Francis’ more inclusive approach, including allowing blessings for same-sex couples—this did not prevent the late pontiff from placing his trust in him. In 2019, Pope Francis appointed Farrell as Camerlengo, entrusting him with the solemn responsibility of guiding the Church through the papal transition.
Upon officially confirming the death of Pope Francis, Cardinal Farrell’s duties include preparing for the conclave, the secretive assembly of cardinals that will elect the next pope. This process, steeped in centuries of tradition, must take place within 15 to 20 days of the Pope’s passing. Once a new pontiff is chosen by a two-thirds majority, white smoke rising from a chimney atop the Sistine Chapel will signal to the world that the Church has a new leader.
While Cardinal Farrell will continue as Camerlengo until the age of 80 or unless health issues lead to his resignation, there remains a slim possibility that he himself could be elected pope. However, current speculation favors either Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines—a progressive voice who could become the first Asian pope—or Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State and a continuity figure within the Church.
Farrell’s rise within the Vatican began in earnest following the 2013 election of Pope Francis, who appointed him to lead a newly established department focused on laity, family, and life. His leadership and influence were further solidified with his elevation to Camerlengo.
In tribute to Pope Francis, Cardinal Farrell said:
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
