Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, is a key figure in the transition following the Pope's death. As camerlengo, he is responsible for overseeing Vatican affairs and managing the Holy See's administration. His duties include confirming the Pope's death, preparing for the conclave, and ensuring the continuity of the Church's governance. Farrell was appointed to the role in 2019 and has been involved in various key positions within the Vatican.
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Cardinal Kevin Farrell, an Irish-American cardinal, is playing a crucial role in the Vatican following the death of Pope Francis 1 3. As the Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, Farrell is a key figure in the papal transition 1 3. His appointment to this position in 2019 signaled the deep trust Pope Francis placed in him 1 3.
The Camerlengo's responsibilities include officially confirming the Pope's death 1 3. He also performs rites connected to the papal funeral, oversees preparations for the conclave, and manages the administration of the Holy See until a new Pope is elected 1 3. Farrell is responsible for sealing the Pope's study, bedroom, and entire papal apartment 1 3. He also notifies the Cardinal Vicar for Rome of the Pope's death, who then informs the people of Rome 1 3. Farrell takes possession of the Apostolic Palace, the Lateran, and Castel Gandolfo, managing their administration during this period 1 3.
Kevin Joseph Farrell was born in Ireland on September 2, 1947 1 3. He was ordained a priest in 1978 after joining the Legionaries of Christ in 1966 1 3. After leaving the Legionaries, he served in the Archdiocese of Washington, eventually becoming an auxiliary bishop in 2002 1 3. Pope Francis appointed Farrell Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family, and Life in 2016 and made him a cardinal shortly after 1 3. He also oversaw the reform of the Vatican's pension fund and served as president of the court of cassation 1 3.
Farrell's career has not been without controversy. He denied prior knowledge of sexual abuse by Marcial Maciel, the founder of the Legion of Christ 1 3. He also lived with Cardinal Theodore McCarrick for six years and claimed no knowledge of the accusations against him 1 3. Farrell's comments about priests lacking credibility in marriage preparation also sparked debate 1 3. Despite these controversies, he was a staunch defender of Pope Francis's Amoris Laetitia 1 3.
During a papal transition, the Church defines legitimate authority primarily through the office of the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church and the College of Cardinals . The Camerlengo, assisted by three Cardinal Assistants, plays a crucial role in overseeing the administration of the Holy See .
Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:
In summary, during the papal transition, the Cardinal Camerlengo, with the assistance of the College of Cardinals, ensures the proper administration and safeguarding of the rights and properties of the Holy See, according to the established laws and norms .