Unveiling the Process: How a New Pope is Chosen During the Conclave

Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88, leaving the Catholic Church to undergo a unique process to elect a new leader. The famous white smoke that billows from the chimney at the Sistine Chapel is a symbol of this event. This smoke signifies that the cardinals have reached a decision on who the new pope will be.

When a pope dies, it initiates a complex procedure involving the conclave, which refers to the closed gathering of cardinals who are tasked with electing the new pope. The term “conclave” comes from Latin, meaning “with key,” which reflects how cardinals are physically sealed away until they elect a leader.

Historically, the first conclave took place in 1268. According to Bry Jensen, host of the Pontifacts podcast, there was so much disagreement that the cardinals were locked in a room and given minimal sustenance to encourage a decision. This led to the election of Pope Gregory X, who implemented the conclave system to prevent future long vacancies in the papacy.

During the conclave, elected cardinals will be isolated within the Vatican, away from the chaos of the outside world. This secrecy has become part of the intrigue surrounding the process. As they deliberate, terms like “Papabili” — those considered likely to be elected as pope — have entered everyday conversations.

The camerlengo, or chamberlain of the Roman Catholic Church, has a vital role following a pope’s death. The current camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, is responsible for announcing the pope’s passing and overseeing the Holy See until a new pope is in place. Many may have heard legends about the camerlengo tapping the deceased pope’s forehead to confirm their death. However, this tradition hasn’t been practiced since Pope Pius IX in 1878.

Once a pope dies, funeral rites are held for nine days. The conclave must convene within 15 to 20 days. Cardinal electors, comprised of those under 80 years, gather to begin the process. They stay at Domus Sanctae Marthae, which is akin to a simple hotel aimed at keeping them focused rather than comfortable.

The election process itself is shrouded in secrecy, as the cardinals must take an oath to maintain confidentiality. The dean of the College of Cardinals presides over a mass before they proceed to the Sistine Chapel to swear their oaths. Following the ceremony, the phrase “Extra omnes” is uttered, signaling that only the cardinals can remain.

Voting begins immediately, typically with only one round on the first evening, which gives a sense of the cardinals’ preferences. The following days consist of multiple voting rounds until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority. If no agreement is reached, the ballots are burned, producing black smoke. Should a pope be elected, white smoke emerges to herald the news.

In recent decades, most conclaves have wrapped up in under four days. When Pope Francis was elected, for example, it only took two days.

Once a candidate is chosen, they are asked two key questions: whether they accept the position and what name they will take as pope. After acceptance, they are fitted in papal attire, and soon after, the public eagerly awaits confirmation from the balcony of St. Peter’s Square with the announcement, “Habemus Papam!” — “We have a pope!”

Incorporating these ancient traditions into today’s fast-paced world continues to spark interest and anticipation among the faithful and observers alike.



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