On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, all eyes are on the Vatican as the election of a new Pope commences, marking a significant moment in the Catholic Church's history. The preparations in the Sistine Chapel are complete, with both the oven and chimney installed, ready to signal the outcome of the conclave. Smoke from the chimney will indicate the status of the voting: white for a successful election and black for an unsuccessful one. A total of 133 Cardinals will gather to elect the 267th Pope, a process steeped in tradition and anticipation.
The conclave begins with the Mass "Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice," where the Cardinals will pray for divine guidance in their choice of the new leader of the Catholic Church. Vatican News will broadcast the Mass live from the Sistine Chapel at 09:55 AM, and viewers can also catch the entrance into the conclave at 16:30. The ZDF and BR have set up a free YouTube livestream focusing solely on the chimney, allowing the public to witness the historic event as it unfolds.
The election process involves each Cardinal writing the name of their preferred candidate on a ballot, with up to four rounds of voting occurring each day. A candidate must secure a two-thirds majority to be elected. If the voting does not yield a decision, black smoke will rise from the chimney, indicating that one or two rounds have failed. Conversely, if a candidate achieves the necessary majority, they will be asked if they accept the position and what name they wish to take as Pope. If they agree, they are immediately recognized as the Bishop of Rome, and white smoke will announce the election of a new head of the Catholic Church.
Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki has suggested that this conclave could take longer than usual, noting that several Cardinals, who have experienced previous conclaves, believe the process may deviate from typical patterns. This election is particularly notable as many Cardinals are participating for the first time, and the College of Cardinals has become "significantly more international" under Pope Francis. There is no set timeframe for the election, but if it prolongs, the Cardinals can opt for a runoff between the two candidates with the most votes.
The Vatican has been a hive of activity in the days leading up to the conclave, with Cardinals arriving and engaging in discussions about potential successors to Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday. The death of the Pope initiated a period known as "Sedisvakanz," during which there is no active head of the Church. As the election approaches, speculation about candidates has intensified, with various names circulating as potential successors.
Amidst the anticipation of the election, a robust security plan has been put in place in Rome. Tens of thousands of pilgrims are expected to gather in St. Peter's Square and the surrounding streets to witness the event. The Roman Prefecture has developed a security strategy based on the model used during Pope Francis's funeral, focusing on enhanced controls, checkpoints, and flexible operations, especially during the moment when white smoke is expected to rise.
Prefect Lamberto Giannini has emphasized the importance of maintaining safety while allowing for a moment of faith and celebration. Over 4,000 security personnel, including police, military, firefighters, paramedics, volunteers, and civil protection units, will be deployed to ensure the safety of the event. Coordination with the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, is ongoing to minimize disruptions to the daily lives of residents while accommodating the influx of visitors.
The atmosphere in Rome is one of solemn expectation as the city prepares for this historic moment. Giannini expressed his honor in serving as Prefect during such a significant occasion, recognizing the weight of responsibility that comes with it. He remarked on the resilience of the Roman people, who are known for their cooperation during historic events.
As the day unfolds, the world will be watching the chimney of the Sistine Chapel closely, awaiting the signal that will announce the election of the new Pope. The rising smoke will serve as a reminder of the rich traditions of the Catholic Church and the importance of this moment for millions of believers worldwide. The anticipation of the white smoke, signaling "Habemus Papam"—"We have a Pope"—is palpable, and the outcome remains uncertain until the final ballots are cast and counted.
