The death of Pope Francis has now set in motion the Catholic Church’s elaborate and centuries-old procedure for electing the new pontiff.

The Vatican did add more details about the laws and rituals that will come into play in the next few weeks to ensure the transfer of power to the new Pope after his death.

From the mourning period to a conclave vote and ballot burning, the leader for over 1.4 billion Catholics will be replaced.

The church now enters a new period known as sede vacante, which means vacant seat, when the Throne of Saint Peter is unoccupied.

Usually, the period is said to last for a few weeks as Pope Francis’ body lies in this state. After this, his funeral is held, and the Vatican prepares for the closed-door meeting to elect his successor.

During this period, the College of Cardinals will temporarily take over and assume some limited powers. This is led by the camerlengo or chamberlain.

Ireland-born Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who is the church’s current camerlengo, would be in charge of running the administration and finances of the Holy See. This is also known as the Catholic Church’s government. For now, all major decision-making at the Vatican will be put on hold.