5 things to know about Cardinal Kevin Farrell, man leading Vatican until a new pope is elected

His brother is also a bishop

Serving in the Roman Catholic Church is apparently a family affair, as Farrell has an older brother who serves as a bishop.

Bishop Brian Farrell, born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1944, served in various positions of Catholic Church authority, most notably as secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity from 2002 to 2024.

The Rev. Jerry Pillay, general secretary of the World Council of Churches, sent a public letter to Brian Farrell last year to celebrate his 80th birthday and recent retirement.

"We are so grateful for your contributions to this enhanced ecumenical relationship," wrote Pillay. "Beyond these substantial contributions, Bishop Farrell, we are most appreciative for the genial and generous friendship and fellowship in Christ that you have shown all of us WCC members, staff, and students through the years."

"As we thank you for your years of excellent service to God and the Roman Catholic Church, we extend our best wishes to you in your retirement. We trust and pray that God will continue to bestow upon you health, wisdom and opportunities to continue to serve Him in the church and the world."