Cardinal Kevin Farrell: The Vatican's Acting Leader in Unprecedented Times

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, appointed by Pope Francis as the camerlengo, takes charge of the Vatican as it mourns the beloved pontiff and prepares for the upcoming conclave.

As the world reels from the announcement of Pope Francis' death, it is Cardinal Kevin Farrell who steps into the spotlight as the acting head of the Vatican. Known for his deep connections to the United States, Cardinal Farrell announced the somber news by stating that the pope had "returned to the home of the Father." His new responsibilities as "camerlengo" place him at the helm of the Vatican during this critical transitional phase known as "Apostolica Sedes Vacans," which spans from the pope's death until a new pontiff is elected. Pope Francis appointed Farrell to this position in 2019.

Cardinal Farrell's journey began in Dublin in 1947. His education took him to notable institutions such as the University of Salamanca in Spain and the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. With over 30 years spent serving churches across the US—including roles as a chaplain in Monterrey and Bethesda—he was appointed Bishop of Dallas in 2007. In 2016, he ascended to cardinal status when called upon by Pope Francis to lead the Vatican's new department focused on family pastoral care.

In addition to his role as camerlengo, Farrell was recently appointed president of the Supreme Court of Vatican City State and the Commission for Confidential Matters. As camerlengo, he must organize the forthcoming conclave, convened to elect the next pope. Historically, a camerlengo can become pope, with two past instances illustrating this rare transition—Gioacchino Pecci (Pope Leo XIII) in 1878 and Eugenio Pacelli (Pope Pius XII) in 1939.

Farrell's responsibilities extend beyond planning; he will oversee the certification of Pope Francis's death and lead the solemn procession transporting the late pontiff’s body from the chapel of the Domus Santa Marta to St. Peter's Basilica. This procession, expected to occur soon, will be a moment of reflection for catholics worldwide as they bid farewell to a pope deeply cherished by many.