The Vatican in Focus: Understanding Its Leadership and Structure
For over two weeks, the world has been closely following developments from the Vatican as Pope Francis remains hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14, 2025, undergoing treatment for double pneumonia and other complications. The Pope’s health has sparked widespread interest, not only due to his spiritual leadership but also because his condition raises questions about the governance of the Catholic Church and the Holy See. When a pope is ill, resigns, or passes away, the Vatican’s hierarchical structure and processes come into play. The Conversation U.S. sought insights from Daniel Speed Thompson, a theologian at the University of Dayton, to explore the Vatican’s leadership structure and how decisions are made in the absence of a pope.
The Vatican’s Power Structure: Who is in Charge?
The Vatican is both the spiritual center of the Catholic Church and an independent city-state. At its helm is the pope, who serves as both the religious leader of the global Catholic Church and the head of state for Vatican City. To govern both the church and the state, the pope relies on the Roman Curia, often referred to as the papal bureaucracy. The Curia acts as an extension of the pope’s authority, managing the church’s political and religious affairs. Within this structure, powerful figures include cardinals who oversee key departments, or "dicasteries," such as the Secretariat of State, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, and the Dicastery of Bishops. These officials work under the pope’s authority, implementing his agenda and addressing critical issues facing the church.
When a Pope Cannot Lead: The Role of the College of Cardinals
When a pope is unable to fulfill his duties—whether due to health reasons, resignation, or death—the governance of the Catholic Church transitions to the College of Cardinals. This group serves as a caretaker government, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Vatican and preparing for the election of a new pope. However, the College of Cardinals has limited authority. It cannot make significant decisions regarding faith, morals, or worship, nor can it alter church laws or undo previous papal decisions. The transition period is carefully managed, with one cardinal, known as the Camerlengo, playing a central role. The Camerlengo confirms the pope’s death or resignation, assumes control of the pope’s residence, and coordinates funeral arrangements and logistical preparations for the conclave to elect a new pope.
The Path to the Papacy: Do Vatican Officials Become Pope?
While the College of Cardinals plays a crucial role in electing a new pope, not all cardinals are part of the Vatican bureaucracy. Some, like Pope Francis, are chosen from outside the Roman Curia, while others, such as Pope Benedict XVI, have prior experience in the Curia. This highlights the diversity of backgrounds among those who have ascended to the papacy. When a pope is elected, the church’s day-to-day operations resume under the new leader’s guidance, and decisions on matters such as bishop appointments and diplomatic initiatives can once again move forward.
Insights into the Vatican: A Unique Institution
The Vatican is a unique institution, blending a nearly 2,000-year-old religious mission with the political status of a city-state. While its rich history provides a strong foundation, it can also create challenges for self-examination and renewal. Like any organization, the Vatican is composed of individuals who range from deeply committed servants of the church to those who may prioritize personal gain or status. Pope Francis has been vocal in addressing these issues, calling out clergy who abuse their power or lose sight of their mission to serve. The Vatican’s resources, while significant, are far smaller than those of modern governments or corporations, with approximately 2,000 employees and an annual operating budget of about $835 million.
Conclusion: The Vatican’s Role in the Modern World
The Vatican’s leadership structure and processes are shaped by its dual role as a spiritual and political entity. While its hierarchy and traditions can seem mysterious to outsiders, the Vatican’s operations are carried out by individuals with diverse motivations and capabilities. As the Catholic Church navigates the challenges of the modern world, the Vatican’s ability to balance tradition with renewal will be crucial. By understanding the Vatican’s structure and the people who guide it, we gain insight into an institution that continues to play a significant role in global affairs and the lives of millions of Catholics worldwide.
