The Vatican has set the stage for a significant moment in the Catholic Church's history as the conclave to elect the 267th Pope begins today, May 7, 2025. The first smoke signal indicating the outcome of the cardinal electors' votes is expected to rise from the Sistine Chapel's chimney around 7:00 p.m. local time, according to Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office.
The day commenced with a mass held in St. Peter's Basilica, known as 'Pro eligendo Romano Pontifice,' presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. During this mass, attended by over 5,000 faithful, Cardinal Re invoked the Holy Spirit, asking for guidance in selecting a worthy shepherd for the Church. "Tutta la Chiesa, unita a noi nella preghiera, invoca costantemente la grazia dello Spirito Santo, perché sia eletto da noi un degno Pastore di tutto il gregge di Cristo," he stated, emphasizing the Church's need for a leader who can awaken the consciences of the faithful in a world that often forgets God.
Following the mass, the 133 cardinal electors will gather outside the Domus Santa Marta at 3:45 p.m. local time before proceeding to the Apostolic Palace. Their first stop will be the Pauline Chapel, where they will participate in a procession to the Sistine Chapel, expected to arrive around 4:30 p.m. Here, they will sing the traditional 'Veni Creator,' invoking the Holy Spirit to guide their deliberations.
Once in the Sistine Chapel, the cardinal electors will take an oath of fidelity and secrecy regarding the election process. This solemn moment will be led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who will preside over the conclave in Cardinal Re's absence due to his age. The oath includes a commitment to maintain the confidentiality of the proceedings and to uphold the integrity of the election. "Chiunque di noi sia eletto Romano Pontefice si impegnerà a svolgere fedelmente il munus petrinum," Parolin will read, affirming their dedication to the responsibilities of their roles.
After the oath, the cardinals will hear a meditation from Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, which will conclude before the voting begins. The first ballot is anticipated to take place later this evening, with the initial smoke signal indicating the results. If no Pope is elected, black smoke will rise, but if a new Pope is chosen, white smoke will billow from the chimney, marking a historic moment for the Church.
Bruni explained that voting can occur up to four times daily, and smoke signals will be emitted twice a day until a new Pope is elected. Should the first vote on Thursday, May 8, yield a new Pope, white smoke could appear around 10:30 a.m. local time. The next smoke signal would follow at 7:00 p.m. unless an afternoon vote results in a new Pope, which could produce white smoke around 5:30 p.m.
During the mass, Cardinal Re expressed the importance of unity within the Church, stating, "L'amore è la sola forza capace di cambiare il mondo," emphasizing that love and service should guide the new leader. He reflected on the need for a Pope who can foster communion and unity among the faithful, particularly in today's world, which faces numerous challenges.
As the conclave commences, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The cardinals will be isolated from the outside world, with cellular signals deactivated within Vatican City to prevent any leaks of information regarding the election. This measure, effective from 3:00 p.m. today, will remain in place until the announcement of the new Pope.
Security measures have also been heightened, with the questore of Rome, Roberto Massucci, emphasizing the importance of concentration during this critical time. He stated, "C'è grande soddisfazione ma anche massima concentrazione," highlighting the seriousness with which the Vatican approaches this moment.
The conclave's proceedings will be closely watched, not only for the election of the new Pope but also for the discussions surrounding the Church's future direction, particularly in light of the challenges faced during Pope Francis' papacy. The cardinals have reportedly discussed issues such as abuse scandals and the Vatican's financial situation, acknowledging the legacy of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, and his efforts against war and for peace.
As the cardinals prepare to enter the Sistine Chapel, there is a palpable sense of hope and expectation. The world watches as the Catholic Church embarks on this pivotal journey to select a new leader, one who will guide the Church through the complexities of modern society while remaining faithful to its core values.
The first smoke signal tonight will be a significant moment, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church. Whether it will be black or white remains to be seen, but the anticipation is sure to resonate far beyond the walls of the Vatican.
