On May 7, 2025, the Conclave officially commenced to elect the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church, following the passing of Pope Francis just over two weeks prior. The event began with the Messa Pro eligendo pontifice at 10:00 AM in St. Peter's Basilica, attended by over 5,000 faithful, and concluded around 11:23 AM.
As the day progressed, the atmosphere grew increasingly solemn. At approximately 4:30 PM, 133 cardinal electors gathered in the Sistine Chapel, where they invoked the Holy Spirit with the hymn "Veni, creator Spiritus." Each cardinal then took an oath of fidelity and secrecy, pledging to uphold the sanctity of the election process.
At 5:42 PM, Monsignor Diego Ravelli pronounced the "Extra Omnes," signaling that all non-participants had to leave the chapel. The doors were officially closed at 5:46 PM, marking the start of the voting process. The first smoke signal is anticipated later in the evening, around 7 PM, with hopes for a white smoke that would indicate the election of a new Pope.
Throughout the day, discussions among the cardinals had revolved around pressing issues, including the Church's stance on abuse, Vatican finances, and the urgent call for a "just and lasting" peace in regions like Ukraine and the Middle East. The cardinals expressed the need for a leader who can unite the Church in a divided world.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who presided over the oath-taking ceremony, is considered a strong candidate for the papacy, as indicated by the warm wishes from Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who remarked, "Auguri... e doppi" to Parolin during the mass. This phrase, which means "double wishes," hinted at Parolin's potential favor among the electors.
Despite health concerns, Cardinal Vinko Puljic was present in the Sistine Chapel, making a significant effort to participate in this crucial event. His attendance underscored the commitment of the cardinal electors to fulfill their responsibilities, regardless of personal challenges.
The Conclave is being conducted under heightened security measures, with mobile networks being blocked to prevent outside influence on the voting process. This lockdown has resulted in limited connectivity even in St. Peter's Square, where visitors have experienced difficulties with messaging apps.
As the day unfolded, the anticipation surrounding the Conclave grew. The cardinal electors are expected to meet four times daily for voting, and the first smoke signal will be a significant moment, marking either the election of a new Pope or the continuation of deliberations.
The Messa Pro eligendo pontifice served not only as a spiritual preparation but also as a moment for the Church to reflect on its future leadership amidst a rapidly changing world. With over 30 million visitors expected in Rome for the ongoing Jubilee, the election of a new Pope carries profound implications for the Church's direction and its role in global affairs.
As the cardinal electors embark on this sacred journey, they carry the hopes and prayers of millions, poised to select a leader who will guide the Catholic Church through the complexities of modern life. The world watches closely, awaiting the outcome of this pivotal moment in Church history.
In the coming days, the Conclave will continue, with the cardinal electors engaging in prayer, reflection, and ultimately, the decision that will shape the future of the Catholic Church. The first smoke signal will reveal whether they have reached a consensus or if further deliberation is needed.
With the expectation of the first smoke signal tonight, the atmosphere remains charged with hope and uncertainty. Will the next Pope emerge as a unifying figure in a time of division? Only time will tell, as the 133 cardinal electors undertake their solemn duty in the heart of Vatican City.
