As the Catholic Church enters a solemn period of mourning following the death of Pope Francis, the weight of global spiritual leadership now rests — at least temporarily — on the shoulders of an Irishman.
Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, originally from the Dublin suburb of Drimnagh, has assumed the role of camerlengo, overseeing the Vatican’s daily operations until a new Pope is elected.
At 77, Cardinal Farrell is no stranger to global service. Raised in a modest Irish-speaking family, he entered the priesthood and eventually moved to the United States, where he rose through the ranks to become Bishop of Dallas.
In 2016, Pope Francis appointed him to a senior Vatican post, and in 2019 entrusted him with the role of camerlengo — the official in charge during a papal interregnum.
Though known for his conservative views on social issues such as same-sex marriage, Farrell was one of Pope Francis’ most trusted aides.
His current task is critical: to ensure order and continuity until the College of Cardinals convenes for the conclave — the secretive process that will elect the next pontiff.
The conclave, steeped in centuries-old tradition, will begin within 15 to 20 days of the Pope’s passing, and only concludes when a two-thirds majority is reached.
While Farrell is not considered a frontrunner to succeed Francis, his stewardship during this sensitive time underscores his significance within the Church. Among those tipped to become the next Pope are Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines and Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy.
