Cardinals Begin Conclave to Elect New Pope
The Catholic Church enters a new chapter as 133 cardinals begin the Conclave to elect a new pope in Vatican City. This formal process follows the passing of Pope Francis on April 21 at the age of 88.
This Conclave has the most globally diverse group of electors in Church history, with representation from 71 different countries. The cardinals entered the Sistine Chapel after a morning Mass led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals. Although he presides over the ceremony, Re is not taking part in the voting due to his age.
Once the cardinals enter the chapel, they completely disconnect from outside communication. To ensure privacy, church officials enforce strict protocols. These measures include using signal jammers, conducting electronic sweeps, and requiring legal oaths of silence. As a result, any cardinal who breaks these rules may face excommunication.
Moreover, the rules clearly state that a candidate must secure two-thirds of the votes—at least 89—to become pope. The cardinals cast their votes up to four times each day. However, if no one achieves the required vote count after three days, they pause the process for a period of reflection and prayer.
Meanwhile, a small chimney on the chapel roof signals the outcome to the public. When black smoke rises, it indicates that the cardinals have not yet reached a decision. In contrast, white smoke signals that they have elected a new pope.
Here are the key facts:
- Number of cardinal electors: 13
- Minimum votes needed: 89
- Number of countries represented: 71
- First vote: May 7, 2025
- Voting limit per day: Four rounds
- Secrecy protocol: Total isolation, oaths of silence, electronic jammers
Who Could Be the New Pope?
There are the cardinals often mentioned as candidates:
- Pietro Parolin (Italy): Known for his years in Vatican diplomacy and steady leadership as Secretary of State.
- Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): Seen as a reform-minded voice, currently overseeing global evangelization efforts.
- Robert Prevost (U.S.): Oversees bishop appointments worldwide and is seen as a middle-ground choice.
- Matteo Zuppi (Italy): Closely linked with peace-building missions and community outreach.
- Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy): The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, recognized for leading the Church in a region of frequent tension.
- Peter Turkson (Ghana): Known for his work on climate and economic justice, and considered a voice for the Global South.
- Péter Erdő (Hungary): A respected canon law expert and former president of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences.
Under Heavy Security
Over 4,000 officers safeguard Rome, the Vatican, and surrounding areas during the Conclave. Large crowds gather in St. Peter’s Square, hoping to witness history once the white smoke appears.
In his homily before the conclave began, Cardinal Re reminded his fellow cardinals of the weight of their task: “We are united in prayer and hopeful that the Holy Spirit will guide the decision.”
There’s no clear timeline for when a new pope will be chosen. Some conclaves take just a couple of days, others last longer. For now, the world watches and waits.
More…
- https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/vatican-conclave-pick-new-pope-world-waits-white-smoke-2025-05-07/
- https://apnews.com/article/conclave-pope-francis-cardinals-50c798caa826bbb7c913791175536add
- https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-05/cardinal-re-united-in-prayer-conclave-guidance-holy-spirit.html
- https://time.com/7282843/next-pope-candidates-zuppi-parolin-tagle-turkson-erdo/
- https://www.nytimes.com/live/2025/05/07/world/pope-conclave-updates
- https://www.overhereny.com/how-the-world-is-paying-tribute-to-pope-francis/