Cardinal Joseph Zen voices concerns over the rapid scheduling of Vatican General Congregations following Pope Francis’ death, raising questions about accessibility for elderly cardinals traveling from distant regions.

At a Glance

• Pope Francis’ death has initiated the traditional process for electing a new pope, with General Congregations scheduled to begin just 26 hours after his passing
• Cardinal Joseph Zen, 93, questioned why meetings were scheduled so quickly, expressing concern for elderly cardinals traveling from far away
• Cardinal Kevin Farrell, as Papal Camerlengo, now governs Vatican City State until a new pope is elected
• The nine-day mourning period includes funeral preparations and discussions about potential papal candidates
• While cardinals over 80 cannot vote in the conclave, they have the right to participate in General Congregations

Rapid Response Raises Eyebrows

Following Pope Francis’ death after 12 years as head of the Roman Catholic Church, the Vatican has moved swiftly to begin pre-conclave proceedings. Cardinal Joseph Zen of Hong Kong has publicly questioned the accelerated timeline, noting that the first General Congregation was scheduled for Tuesday morning – merely 26 hours after the Pope’s passing. The 93-year-old cardinal expressed particular concern about elderly cardinals who must travel great distances to Rome on short notice.

“Cardinal Zen would like to know why the first session of the General Congregations has to start so early. How are the old men from the peripheries supposed to arrive on time? There is the kind word reminding them that they do not have the duty to attend, but they have the right – yes or no?”, said Cardinal Joseph Zen.

Zen’s participation itself remains uncertain due to potential travel restrictions imposed by Hong Kong authorities. While cardinals over 80 like Zen cannot vote in the conclave to elect the new pope, they are entitled to participate in the General Congregations where important discussions and funeral arrangements take place.

Traditional Protocols in Motion

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, serving as the Papal Camerlengo (chamberlain), formally pronounced Pope Francis dead and has assumed temporary governance of Vatican City State. In keeping with tradition, the Pope’s Fisherman’s ring and papal seal dies have been destroyed to symbolize the end of his pontificate. The solemn process includes a nine-day mourning period called Novemdiales and preparation for the funeral, which typically occurs four to six days after death.

Pope Francis requested to be buried in Rome’s St. Mary Major Basilica in a simple wooden casket. Before the burial, his body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica for mourners to pay their respects. The funeral itself consists of three phases: preparation, viewing, and burial, with ceremonies typically held in St. Peter’s Square.

Differing Perspectives on Urgency

Not all Catholic leaders share Zen’s concerns. Cardinal Vincent Nichols has downplayed the necessity of attending early meetings, suggesting that the initial gatherings address primarily logistical matters. Many cardinals from the Roman Curia are already present in Rome, making attendance less burdensome for them. The meetings will continue as cardinals arrive from around the world in preparation for the conclave.

The conclave to elect a new pope will begin 15 to 20 days after Pope Francis’ death. Only cardinals under 80 years old – approximately 135 – are eligible to vote. The election takes place in the Sistine Chapel under strict secrecy, with cardinals voting until a candidate receives a two-thirds-plus-one majority. Black smoke signals no decision has been reached, while white smoke announces that a new pope has been elected.

As the Vatican moves forward with these ancient traditions, Cardinal Zen’s comments highlight practical considerations that affect the Church’s most senior members during transition periods, especially those from regions far from Rome.