On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the papal conclave officially commenced in the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City, where 133 cardinals gathered to elect the successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The momentous occasion was marked by the pronouncement of "Extra Omnes" (All out) by the master of ceremonies, Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, signaling the exit of all non-voting individuals from the chapel.
As the choir members, accredited press, and other authorized personnel exited, the doors of the Sistine Chapel were closed and locked to ensure the cardinals' deliberations remained free from external influence. Earlier that day, the cardinals invoked divine guidance during a Mass held in honor of the Holy Spirit, a tradition preceding the papal election process.
At 4:30 p.m. local time, a prayer was held in the Pauline Chapel of the Apostolic Palace, where the cardinals, dressed in choral robes, were seen in a contemplative mood before processing to the Sistine Chapel, led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin. The procession was accompanied by liturgies honoring saints and popes, underscoring the solemnity of the moment.
Inside the Sistine Chapel, the cardinals found their designated places at tables adorned with brown and red fabrics, ready to fulfill their sacred duty. This conclave is notably the most global in history, comprising cardinals from 70 countries, with 80% having been appointed by Pope Francis himself. The world now eagerly awaits the signal of white smoke to announce the newly elected pope.
During the Mass Pro Eligendo Pontifice, held earlier at 10:00 a.m., Cardinal Dean Giovanni Battista Re wished "double luck" to Cardinal Parolin, one of the leading candidates for the papacy. The conclave is marked not only by its diversity but also by the anticipation surrounding potential candidates, with speculation rife among observers and bettors alike.
The excitement surrounding the conclave has attracted attention from betting platforms, with over 18 million dollars wagered on who will emerge as the next pope. Cardinal Pietro Parolin has been named the favorite, closely followed by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, as the world watches closely for the first puff of smoke around 7:00 p.m. Rome time.
As the cardinals prepare to cast their votes, they are reminded of their grave responsibility to act with integrity and seek divine guidance in their decision-making. Each cardinal must write the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot, which they will deposit in a receptacle before the altar. The votes will be counted, and if a candidate receives the required two-thirds majority, white smoke will billow from the chapel chimney, signaling the election of a new pope.
In a carefully structured ritual, the cardinals will hold four votes each day, with fumatas following each voting block. If no majority is reached, the smoke will be black, indicating that the search for the new pope continues. The anticipation builds as the faithful gather outside St. Peter's Square, where large screens display the proceedings inside the chapel.
Among the cardinal electors, Cardinal Vinko Puljić, Archbishop Emeritus of Sarajevo, participated despite health concerns that had initially cast doubt on his involvement. He, along with the other cardinals, took the solemn oath of compliance with the Apostolic Constitution Universi Dominici Gregis, which governs the conclave's proceedings.
As the cardinals entered the conclave, they were reminded of the importance of confidentiality and the need to reject any external interference. The oath taken by each cardinal emphasizes their commitment to uphold the integrity of the election process and the spiritual well-being of the Catholic Church.
With the doors of the Sistine Chapel now closed, the cardinals are entirely focused on their task, encapsulated in a moment described as "a time suspended and shrouded in mystery". Paolo Ruffini, prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, noted that this is a time for discernment as they seek to elect a servant of the servants of God.
As the world waits with bated breath, the first round of voting is set to commence, and the outcome will shape the future of the Catholic Church for years to come. The expectations are high, and the stakes are profound, as the faithful look to the heavens for guidance and hope in the selection of their new leader.
