The Novendiales: why the Vatican will mourn Pope Francis for nine more days

Pope Francis’ funeral is over, but nine days of ancient Roman inspired mourning have just begun. Find out how the Vatican will honour the Pope – both in public and behind closed doors.

With the funeral of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church has officially entered the Novendiales — a traditional nine-day period of mourning, reflection, and spiritual preparation before the election of a new pontiff.

Beginning the day of the funeral, the Novendiales features daily Masses at St Peter’s Basilica, each led by a cardinal chosen by the late pope or appointed according to rank and tradition. The last time the world witnessed this period was in 2005, following the death of Pope John Paul II.

“The Novendiales, or nine days of mourning following a pope’s death, draw their length from ancient Roman funerary custom,” Professor Darius von Guttner, historian from the Australian Catholic University, said.

Cardinals will wear red throughout the period to symbolise both martyrdom and the Holy Spirit. Picture: Getty Images

“The Novendiales therefore serves as a hinge between pontificates: commemorative yet anticipatory, allowing the College of Cardinals time to prepare emotionally, liturgically, and administratively for the responsibilities that lie ahead.”

The liturgical colour red — symbolising both martyrdom and the Holy Spirit — is worn throughout the period.

While open to the public, each Mass honours a distinct group close to the late pope. On the second day, Vatican City residents and employees are invited; the third day sees clergy from the Diocese of Rome; the seventh day welcomes members of the Eastern Catholic Churches.

The second Mass will coincide with the Jubilee of Teenagers in St Peter’s Square, presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who is considered the frontrunner to succeed Pope Francis.

A Catholic sister touches a portrait of late Pope Francis during a holy mass held in his honour, at the Cathedral of St. Lucia in Colombo. Picture: AFP

“These Masses blend mourning with the hope of resurrection, and are attended by cardinals, Roman clergy, dignitaries, and the faithful,” Professor von Guttner said.

Behind closed doors, the College of Cardinals also gathers daily for General Congregations — confidential meetings to manage Church affairs and prepare for the conclave that will elect the next pope.

“During the Novendiales, the College of Cardinals assumes responsibility for the government of the Church and preparing for the election of his successor,” Professor von Guttner said.

“The Novendiales provide space for informal discussion, where cardinals begin to share views on the state of the Church and its future needs.

“They also receive briefings from the Camerlengo, who oversees the Church’s temporal affairs during this time.”

Originally published as The Novendiales: why the Vatican will mourn Pope Francis for nine more days