BREAKING: US cardinal assumes role as interim ‘New Pope’

DDM News

Cardinal Kevin Farrell has assumed temporary leadership of the Vatican following the death of Pope Francis.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revealed that he steps into this role as Camerlengo, a position designated to manage Vatican affairs during the papal interregnum.

The Camerlengo is responsible for verifying the Pope’s death and securing the papal residence.

He also oversees preparations for the conclave, which will elect a new pontiff.

This period between popes is known as sede vacante, during which major Church decisions are put on hold.

The College of Cardinals is expected to gather in Rome to begin the process of choosing a new Pope.

Cardinal Farrell’s role is to ensure a smooth and lawful transition of spiritual leadership in this solemn time.

Born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1947, Kevin Joseph Farrell entered the Legionaries of Christ in 1966.

He was ordained a priest in 1978, after theological training in Rome and studies in philosophy and theology.

Farrell served in various pastoral and administrative roles in Mexico and the United States during his early years.

He later became incardinated into the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., where he served as auxiliary bishop.

In 2007, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him Bishop of Dallas, Texas, where he was known for administrative reforms.

In 2016, Pope Francis appointed him as the first Prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life.

This newly created Vatican office focused on promoting lay participation and strengthening family values in Church life.

Later that same year, he was elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis in recognition of his service.

In 2019, he was appointed Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, a role critical during a papal vacancy.

As Camerlengo, he oversees the Vatican’s temporal affairs and ensures all functions continue properly during the transition.

He is tasked with preserving Church stability while the world’s cardinals prepare for a papal conclave.

Cardinal Farrell is recognized for his moderate views and administrative competence within the global Church hierarchy.

He is seen as a bridge between traditional values and the Church’s modern challenges, especially in engaging laity and youth.

His Irish roots, combined with decades of American experience, give him a unique international perspective in Church leadership.

Many Church observers consider his leadership style to be calm, methodical, and focused on unity.

As the Church mourns the loss of Pope Francis, Cardinal Farrell now carries the weight of continuity on his shoulders.

He will remain in charge until a new pope is elected through the secretive conclave process conducted by the College of Cardinals.

The world now watches the Vatican closely, as it navigates one of the most sacred transitions in Catholic tradition.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook