VATICAN CITY - The conclave to elect a new pope officially began on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, as 133 cardinals gathered in the iconic Sistine Chapel, marking the start of a historic process to choose a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025. The cardinals, representing 70 countries, entered the chapel chanting the meditative "Litany of the Saints" and recited an oath of secrecy, pledging to follow the rules of the conclave as they embarked on this solemn task.
The conclave is a secretive process that has been conducted since medieval times, during which the cardinals are sequestered from the outside world. All communications around the Vatican are jammed, and the cardinals have turned in their cell phones, ensuring that they can vote without outside influence. The first round of voting took place on Wednesday afternoon, with only one round scheduled for the day. If no candidate secures the required two-thirds majority of 89 votes, the cardinals will return on Thursday, May 8, for further rounds of voting.
As the cardinals processed into the chapel, they were reminded of the weighty responsibility they bear in choosing the leader of the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, presided over a morning Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, calling for unity and prayer as the cardinals approached this "difficult, complex and troubled turning point in history." He emphasized the need for wisdom and good counsel in their deliberations.
Once inside the Sistine Chapel, the cardinals took their oaths and were instructed on the voting procedures by the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations. The cardinals will cast their votes by writing the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot, which is then placed in a chalice. The ballots will be counted, and the results will be announced through smoke signals from the chapel chimney: black smoke indicates no pope was elected, while white smoke signifies the election of a new pontiff.
With the world watching, the first smoke signal is expected around 7 p.m. local time on Wednesday. The anticipation is palpable, as crowds gather in St. Peter's Square, hoping to witness the historic moment when the new pope is introduced to the world from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.
Among the cardinals considered potential candidates for the papacy are Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, and Luis Antonio Tagle, who is often referred to as "Francis 2" due to his progressive views. Other names mentioned include Peter Erdő of Hungary and Matteo Zuppi of Italy. The cardinals will engage in multiple rounds of voting, with up to four rounds permitted each day until a candidate emerges with the necessary votes.
In a modern twist, the Vatican has implemented high-tech measures to ensure the secrecy of the conclave, including jamming devices to prevent communication with the outside. This is a significant aspect of the conclave's evolution, as the cardinals are not only bound by tradition but also by the need to adapt to contemporary realities.
As the cardinals prepare for the task ahead, the atmosphere in Vatican City is charged with expectation. Pilgrims and onlookers have gathered in St. Peter's Square, braving the elements to witness this ancient ritual. Many are praying for a pope who will continue the legacy of inclusivity and outreach established by Pope Francis.
Father Ignacio Palacios, a priest from Toledo, Spain, expressed the collective sentiment of those present, stating, "It’s nice to feel this strong sense of faith and belonging. We are aware of the fact that we are witnessing a historic moment." The sense of anticipation is further heightened by the knowledge that this conclave is the most geographically diverse in history, with cardinals from over 70 countries participating.
In a related development, a group of women protested outside the Vatican, lighting pink smoke flares to advocate for greater inclusion of women in the Church. Kate McElwee, executive director of the Women’s Ordination Conference, stated, "While the world may be waiting for white or black smoke, our pink smoke is a signal that women should be included in every aspect of the life of the Church." This protest highlights ongoing discussions about gender equality within the Catholic Church.
As the conclave unfolds, many are reflecting on the historical significance of this moment. The longest conclave in history lasted nearly three years, while recent elections have typically concluded within a few days. The cardinals are hopeful for a swift decision, with many expressing a desire for a leader who embodies the values of compassion and unity.
The conclave is set against the backdrop of a Church facing numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and a decline in attendance in some regions. The cardinals are tasked with finding a leader who can navigate these complexities and inspire a renewed sense of purpose among the faithful.
As the day progresses, the cardinals will engage in their sacred duty, casting their votes and seeking divine guidance in their decision-making. The world awaits the outcome, eager to learn who will become the next pope and lead the Catholic Church into a new era.
In the coming days, as the cardinals deliberate and vote, the faithful around the globe will remain united in prayer, hopeful for a new leader who can guide the Church with wisdom and compassion.
