Monday, April 04, 2005
JPII's Plans for After His Death
The 13,000-word document also specifies how the Church is to be governed during the next three to four weeks.
John Paul II decreed that the conclave to elect his successor should not begin until at least 15 days have passed since his death. But it cannot be delayed beyond 20 days.
During the period of the Sede Vacante, or Vacant See, the most important Vatican official is the Camerlengo, or Chamberlain.
His first task was to seal the papal apartment and ensure the Pope's ring and lead seal were smashed - a centuries-old precaution against any attempt at forgery or impersonation.
John Paul II decreed that the conclave to elect his successor should not begin until at least 15 days have passed since his death. But it cannot be delayed beyond 20 days.
During the period of the Sede Vacante, or Vacant See, the most important Vatican official is the Camerlengo, or Chamberlain.
His first task was to seal the papal apartment and ensure the Pope's ring and lead seal were smashed - a centuries-old precaution against any attempt at forgery or impersonation.
