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• Tue Apr 22 2025

08.20 CEST Morning opening: Sede vacante Jakub Krupa

Following the death of Pope Francis at 88 yesterday, the papacy is currently vacant, or as they call it in Vatican, we?re in the sede vacante period.

People stand outside St Peter?s Square, following the death of Pope Francis, in Rome, Italy. Photograph: Hannah McKay/Reuters

But first decisions are set to be made today about the process that will first pay tribute to Francis?s life of service, and ultimately lead to the election of his successor.

While the 88-year-old left clear instructions on where he would want to be buried ? in St. Mary Major basilica outside the Vatican ? the critical timeline of what happens when is to be decided by the cardinals.

The Congregation of Cardinals is expected to make first calls today, including on when his body would lie in state, and when the funeral would take place, kicking off a complex diplomatic operation which will see scores of global leaders descend on Rome and Vatican.

The clock is also starting for the conclave which will ultimately elect the new pope, which must begin 15-20 days after the death of the previous head of the Catholic church. Expect to hear more about papabili, those expected to be in the running to succeed Francis.

I will bring you all the key updates throughout the day.

It?s Tuesday, 22 April 2025, it?s Jakub Krupa here, and this is Europe Live.

Good morning.