Why Pope Francis’ signet ring will be destroyed following his death

The Vatican begins its ancient rituals and ceremonies after Pope Francis died at 88 on Easter Monday, April 21.

He suffered a stroke, slipped into a coma, and experienced irreversible heart failure.

Francis, beloved worldwide, had battled a respiratory illness for weeks before his death.

Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the news:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.
At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”

Farrell honored Francis’ legacy, calling his life one of total devotion to God and the Catholic Church.

He urged the world to embrace Gospel values with faith, courage, and love for the poor and marginalized.

Following tradition, the Vatican enacted the “Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis” — the Rite of Burial for Roman Pontiffs.

This marks the start of centuries-old papal funeral customs.

In a centuries-old ritual, Pope Francis’ signet ring will be destroyed after his 12-year reign.

This act is both symbolic and practical.

The Fisherman’s Ring, first mentioned in the 13th century, once sealed official papal documents alongside a pendant called the bulla.

Officials smashed the pope’s ring with a hammer after his death to prevent forgeries.

Christopher Lamb compared it to removing login credentials from a social media account.

Officials began this practice in 1521 and followed it strictly—until Pope Benedict XVI resigned.

Instead of destroying his ring, they carved a deep cross into it and passed it to Francis.

Each pope receives a new ring at inauguration, depicting Saint Peter in a boat.

Lamb said fears of impersonation have faded, making full destruction feel unnecessary.

Now, Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, appointed by Francis in 2023, will deface the ring instead of destroying it.

A Reign of Modesty

Pope Francis rarely wore the Fisherman’s Ring.

While Benedict and John Paul II often wore theirs, Francis chose a simple silver ring daily—one he’d worn since he was a cardinal.

He saved the papal ring for formal occasions.

In 2019, Francis pulled his hand away from followers trying to kiss his ring, raising questions about his comfort with the gesture.
The Vatican said he wanted to avoid spreading germs.

Lamb noted Francis never demanded traditional reverence, preferring hugs, handshakes, and genuine connection.

He also rejected flashy design for his ring.
Instead of commissioning a custom piece, he chose a gold-plated silver ring once owned by Archbishop Pasquale Macchi.
Most popes opt for ornate, gold rings—Francis wanted history, humility, and simplicity.

A Death in the Digital Age

Francis died one day after blessing the Easter crowd from his wheelchair in St Peter’s Square.
Despite poor health, he stayed active and never retired.

Now, the Vatican readies for one of the Church’s most secretive events: the Conclave.

First comes protocol.

At a pope’s death, his private rooms are sealed.

A red ribbon is tied across the door—sealed with wax.

For Francis, this took place at his modest suite in Domus Sanctae Marthae.

This measure prevents looting and blocks unauthorized access, even inside Vatican City.

Francis turned down the lavish Apostolic Palace — a 12-room penthouse with sweeping views of Rome.

He chose a modest suite instead, dined with others, and lived simply.

Still, he used the grand papal library for visits and waved from the iconic window every Sunday.

After sealing the suite, Cardinal Farrell informs the Cardinal Vicar for Rome, who announces the Pope’s death to the world.

What Happens Now?

Francis left a will, now held by Cardinal Farrell.

It will be read aloud during the College of Cardinals’ first meeting.

Though popes earn about £290,000 annually, Francis refused his salary and asked it be given to charity.

His papal office held assets like cars, an apartment, and ceremonial clothing.

This brought his net worth to about £12 million.

Nine days of mourning now follow, with his funeral expected between April 24 and April 27.

Francis rejected traditional burial extravagance.

He requested a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc, not the usual triple-coffin of cypress, lead, and oak.

He also chose not to be buried beneath St Peter’s Basilica.

Instead, his final resting place will be the Basilica of St Mary Major, where he often prayed.

The Conclave can begin only after the funeral.

Out of 252 cardinals, 140 are under 80 and eligible to vote.

Only 120 will be chosen to enter the Sistine Chapel.

Inside, two stoves will burn every ballot.

Black smoke signals no decision; white smoke means a new pope is chosen.

Once white smoke rises, the world will know a new leader has been elected.

Until then, Francis’ humble ring — kissed by millions — will be chiseled, ending one era and beginning another.