Additional Coverage:
- How the papal conclave will choose a new pope (cbsnews.com)
Following the death of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church prepares for the papal conclave, the process by which his successor will be chosen. This centuries-old tradition involves a gathering of cardinal electors, all serving cardinals under the age of 80, who will convene at the Vatican. Currently, approximately 135 cardinal electors are eligible to participate, with a significant majority appointed by Pope Francis himself.
The conclave is expected to commence in the first or second week of May, per church rules dictating it must begin within 15 to 20 days of the pope’s passing.
The process begins with a morning Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, followed by a procession into the Sistine Chapel.
After a security sweep to prevent unauthorized recordings, the cardinals begin the task of electing the 267th Bishop of Rome. While historically cardinals remained sequestered in the Sistine Chapel until a decision was reached, they now retire to Santa Marta House for meals and rest.
Voting commences with each cardinal writing their chosen candidate’s name on a ballot, taking care to disguise their handwriting. The ballot is then placed on a ceremonial plate, tipped into a chalice-urn, and counted by scrutineers. A two-thirds plus-one majority is required to elect the new pope.
Following each round of voting, the ballots are burned. Black smoke signals an unsuccessful vote, while white smoke indicates a new pope has been chosen.
This process is repeated twice daily, with a pause for prayer and reflection every three days if no decision is reached. Recent conclaves have lasted only a few days, but historically they could extend for much longer.
Once a candidate receives the required majority, he is asked to accept the role. Upon acceptance, he chooses his papal name and the white smoke signals his election to the waiting world.
Bells also chime, a tradition added in 2005 to avoid confusion. The new pope then dons the papal robes and is introduced to the world with the traditional announcement, “Habemus papa” – We have a pope.
He then delivers his first blessing to the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
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- How the papal conclave will choose a new pope (cbsnews.com)