- In the aftermath of Pope Francis’ death, the Vatican has named Cardinal Kevin Farrell as the interim head of the Catholic Church. The Dublin-born cleric, who later became a naturalized American, assumes this vital position as the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church during the papal interregnum.
As Camerlengo, Cardinal Farrell is tasked with overseeing the administration of the Vatican and preparing the Church for the election of a new pope. His responsibilities include managing Church affairs, coordinating the pontiff’s funeral, and facilitating the upcoming conclave.
Who Is Cardinal Kevin Farrell?
At 77 years old, Kevin Farrell brings a multicultural background and a broad skill set to the role. Originally from Dublin, he spent a significant portion of his clerical life in the United States, where he once served as the Bishop of Dallas. He also holds an MBA from the University of Notre Dame, an uncommon academic achievement among senior church figures.
Fluent in several languages—including English, Spanish, Italian, and Irish Gaelic—Farrell has gained a reputation for his strong administrative capabilities and diplomatic finesse. These traits earned him the trust of Pope Francis, who appointed him to key positions within the Vatican over the years.
What the Camerlengo Does
Under canon law, the Camerlengo becomes the acting administrator of the Vatican once a pope dies. Farrell’s official duties began with verifying and confirming Pope Francis’ death. According to CNN News, he also sealed the papal residence and began arrangements for the funeral and conclave.
Quoting the Vatican’s constitution, the Holy See Press Office stated:
“The camerlengo shall administer the day-to-day functions of the Church and oversee all practical arrangements necessary for the conclave.”
While he does not wield full governing authority, Farrell can request financial documentation, manage critical transactions, and ensure that only three departments—the Camerlengo’s office and two others—remain operational during the interregnum.
The Ceremony of Confirmation
In the first official act following the Pope’s passing, Cardinal Farrell conducted ceremonial rites while dressed in white choir attire and a red stole. He signed off on the “authentic act of death,” which was later attached to the formal death certificate signed by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, head of the Vatican Health and Hygiene Department.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis died due to a stroke, followed by heart failure. His remains are expected to lie in state ahead of his funeral and burial, in line with long-held Church customs.
A Key Confidant of the Late Pontiff
Cardinal Farrell was widely seen as one of Pope Francis’ most trusted advisers. In 2016, he was appointed the head of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, where he carried out the Pope’s vision for a more inclusive and compassionate Church. Three years later, Pope Francis promoted him to Camerlengo—“signalling deep trust in his leadership,” according to BBC News.
An unnamed Vatican insider shared that:
“Cardinal Farrell’s combination of pastoral experience, financial knowledge, and multilingual fluency make him ideally suited for this moment.”
Awaiting the Next Pope
As the Church enters a period of transition, Cardinal Farrell will play a central role in ensuring that the conclave is carried out in accordance with Church law and tradition. His oversight will be key to upholding transparency and order as cardinals from across the globe prepare to elect the next pontiff.
Details about the date of the conclave and funeral arrangements are expected to be released soon.
