In the Sistine Chapel, beneath Michelangelo’s frescoes, 133 voting cardinals will gather starting May 7 to select the next pope. The conclave, one of the Catholic Church’s oldest rituals, follows the passing of Francis on April 21, 2025. The secret vote, conducted in complete isolation, will culminate in white smoke, signaling the world’s introduction to the 267th pontiff.
The process, governed by centuries-old rules, comes after a nine-day mourning period known as Novendiales. The election, which may last days or even weeks, reflects the complexity of a diverse College of Cardinals, with representatives from 71 countries. Global anticipation builds as the faithful await the announcement of the new leader of the Catholic Church.
- What defines the conclave? A closed ritual with secret voting and total cardinal isolation.
- Who participates? Cardinals under 80, currently 133, from all continents.
- Why the smoke? It signals the outcome: black for no decision, white for a new pope.
Historical origin of the conclave
The term “conclave” comes from the Latin cum clave, meaning “locked with a key.” The practice was formalized in 1274 when Pope Gregory X, after history’s longest election, set rules to prevent delays. From 1268 to 1271, the Viterbo conclave lasted nearly three years, with 18 cardinals confined in the Papal Palace. Frustrated locals rationed food and removed part of the roof to force a decision.
The apostolic constitution Ubi Periculum, issued by Gregory X, introduced cardinal isolation and the requirement of a two-thirds majority. These rules, refined over centuries, remain the foundation of the current process. Today, the Sistine Chapel, with its iconic chimney, is the stage for this ritual blending spirituality and tradition.
Preparations for May 7
The conclave’s start date was set during the Fifth General Congregation on April 28. Following Francis’ burial on April 26, the Vatican observed the official mourning period. The Pro Eligendo Pontifice Mass, scheduled for 10 a.m. on May 7 (Rome time), will open the process. Cardinals, housed at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, will process to the Sistine Chapel, where they will swear an oath of secrecy.
- Solemn Mass: Held at St. Peter’s Basilica, invoking the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
- Oath: Cardinals pledge secrecy and fidelity, under penalty of excommunication.
- Isolation: No external communication allowed, with checks for cameras or microphones.
- Initial vote: One session on the first day at 7 p.m., with black or white smoke.
The Vatican has installed the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, a visible sign of preparations. The Vatican fire brigade tested the smoke system, ensuring the world can follow the election’s progress.
The role of smoke in the ritual
Smoke is the conclave’s most recognizable symbol. After each voting session, ballots are burned in a special stove. If no candidate secures the required two-thirds, a chemical produces black smoke. When a pope is elected, white smoke emerges, followed by the Habemus Papam announcement in St. Peter’s Square.
The smoke system has evolved over time. In the past, wet straw created black smoke, but today chemicals ensure accuracy. The chimney, mounted on the Sistine Chapel’s roof, becomes the global focus, with crowds and journalists awaiting the signal. In 2013, Francis’ election produced white smoke after just five ballots, a swift process by historical standards.
Diversity in the College of Cardinals
The 2025 College of Cardinals is the most diverse ever, with 135 electors from 71 countries. Francis appointed 108 of these cardinals, prioritizing peripheral regions like Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Only 44% of electors are European, a shift from past conclaves dominated by the continent.
Seven Brazilian cardinals participate: Sérgio da Rocha, Jaime Spengler, Odilo Scherer, Orani Tempesta, Paulo Cezar Costa, João Braz de Aviz, and Leonardo Steiner. Each brings distinct perspectives, reflecting Francis’ influence in diversifying Church leadership. Cardinals from nations like Ghana, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea underscore the process’s globalization.
- Europe: 60 electors, led by Italy (24 cardinals).
- Latin America: 18 electors, including seven Brazilians and three Argentines.
- Asia: 20 electors, with strong representation from the Philippines and India.
- Africa: 16 electors, including cardinals from Ghana and South Africa.
- Oceania and North America: 19 electors, with Australia and the U.S. prominent.
Rules and voting
The election requires a two-thirds majority, or 89 votes, from the 133 electors. Each cardinal writes their choice on a ballot inscribed with Eligo in Summum Pontificem. After voting, three randomly chosen cardinals count the ballots, while three others review the process. Ballots are pierced and tied before burning.
If no consensus emerges after three days, the conclave pauses for 24 hours of prayer and reflection. After seven inconclusive ballots, another pause occurs, with a spiritual exhortation from the cardinal protodeacon, Dominique Mamberti. The process can last weeks, though modern conclaves, like those in 2005 and 2013, took no more than five days.
Cardinals considered for the papacy
Several names are mentioned as potential successors to Francis. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, is noted for his diplomatic experience. Jean-Marc Aveline, Archbishop of Marseille, represents a progressive stance, while Matteo Zuppi, Archbishop of Bologna, is known for his work with the poor.
Outside Europe, Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana stands out for his advocacy on climate and human rights. Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines is another strong contender, known for his charisma and focus on the marginalized. The choice will hinge on intense debates in the Sistine Chapel, where cardinals weigh the Church’s future.
Logistics and isolation
Cardinals stay at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, the residence Francis chose during his papacy. The facility has been prepared for comfort, especially for older electors. The Sistine Chapel, closed to visitors since preparations began, was inspected to prevent external interference like microphones or cameras.
During the conclave, electors have no access to phones, internet, or communication devices. Essential staff, such as security and masters of ceremonies, also swear secrecy. The cardinal camerlengo, Kevin Farrell, oversees logistics, while the dean, Giovanni Battista Re, presides over meetings. The Extra Omnes order marks the start of isolation, when non-participants leave the chapel.
Traditions of the announcement
When a cardinal secures 89 votes, the dean asks: Acceptasne electionem de te canonice factam in Summum Pontificem? (Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?). If accepted, the elected chooses his papal name. The ballots are burned, producing white smoke.
The cardinal protodeacon, Dominique Mamberti, appears on St. Peter’s Basilica’s balcony for the Habemus Papam announcement. The new pope delivers the Urbi et Orbi blessing, addressing Rome and the world. In 2013, Francis surprised crowds by asking for prayers before blessing them.
- Room of Tears: The elected dons papal vestments, prepared in three sizes.
- Te Deum: A hymn sung after the election, marking the conclave’s end.
- Inaugural blessing: The pope appears on the balcony for his first greeting.
Francis’ influence on the process
Francis’ papacy left a profound mark on the College of Cardinals. Of the 135 electors, 108 were appointed by him, reflecting his vision of a more inclusive Church focused on the margins. Cardinals from remote regions like Tonga and Myanmar participate for the first time, broadening the debate on the Church’s direction.
Francis’ emphasis on interfaith dialogue and social justice shapes discussions. Cardinals like Jaime Spengler of Porto Alegre stress the importance of prayer and spiritual guidance, rejecting political views of the conclave. Odilo Scherer of São Paulo notes that the next pope will have a unique identity, not merely echoing Francis.
Expectations for duration
The conclave has no fixed duration. While the Viterbo conclave lasted nearly three years, modern ones are quicker. Benedict XVI’s 2005 election took two days with four ballots. Francis was elected in 2013 after five ballots, also in two days.
Some cardinals anticipate a short process, given the 2025 Jubilee requiring a pope for global events. Others believe the College’s diversity may extend discussions, as electors from varied contexts align their visions. The Sistine Chapel’s chimney, watched by faithful and journalists, will gauge progress.
Funeral rites and transition
Before the conclave, the Vatican observed Francis’ funeral rites. His body was displayed in St. Peter’s Basilica, where thousands paid respects. The funeral on April 26 drew heads of state and religious leaders to St. Peter’s Square. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re led the ceremony, highlighting Francis’ legacy of advocating for the poor and peace.
The Sede Vacante period is managed by the camerlengo, Kevin Farrell, who handles urgent Church decisions. General congregations since April 22 set conclave details, like the start date and logistics. The April 27 Mass, led by Pietro Parolin, and a visit to Francis’ tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore reinforced the process’s spirituality.
Conclave curiosities
The conclave is rich in unique traditions, many unknown to the public. The Sistine Chapel, beyond its artistic value, is a sacred space inspiring cardinals during voting. The secrecy oath, sworn before Michelangelo’s Last Judgment, underscores the moment’s gravity.
- Pierced ballots: After counting, ballots are threaded for archiving.
- Room of Tears: The sacristy where the new pope dons vestments.
- Historic chimney: Used since the 19th century, it’s a global symbol.
- Secret vote: Cardinals cannot vote for themselves, ensuring impartiality.
Though ancient, the process adapts to modern times. Checks for electronic devices, for instance, reflect privacy concerns in a digital age.
Papal names and traditions
Choosing a papal name is a symbolic moment. Francis, honoring St. Francis of Assisi, signaled his mission of simplicity and care for the poor. Other popes, like John Paul II, chose names evoking continuity or reverence for predecessors.
The new pope, when asked Quo nomine vis vocari? (What name do you wish to be called?), defines his identity. Names like Peter, unused since the apostle, are avoided by tradition. The choice shapes perceptions of the pontificate among the faithful.
Global logistics and media coverage
The conclave draws worldwide attention, with journalists from dozens of countries in St. Peter’s Square. The Vatican extended press credentials until May 31, anticipating extensive coverage. TV channels and social media broadcast the Sistine Chapel’s chimney live, capturing every smoke signal.
St. Peter’s Square, accommodating thousands, expects pilgrims from across the globe. Security has been tightened with barriers and heavy policing. The new pope’s inaugural Mass, held days after the election, will be another global event, broadcast to millions.
Influence of the 2025 Jubilee
The conclave coincides with the 2025 Jubilee, a holy year drawing pilgrims to the Vatican. A swift papal election is seen as vital to lead events like the Holy Door opening and ecumenical gatherings. Cardinals are mindful of the need for an active pontiff to coordinate jubilee activities.
The Jubilee, launched in December 2024, centers on hope, a theme Francis championed. The new pope will inherit the task of guiding the Church through a time of spiritual renewal, with events planned in Rome and beyond. The election thus gains urgency to ensure continuity in the jubilee calendar.
Brazilian participation
The seven Brazilian cardinals play active roles in the conclave. Sérgio da Rocha, Archbishop of Salvador, is a key voice in discussions on the Latin American Church. Jaime Spengler of Porto Alegre emphasizes prayer’s role, while Odilo Scherer of São Paulo highlights the next pope’s unique identity.
Orani Tempesta of Rio de Janeiro, Paulo Cezar Costa of Brasília, João Braz de Aviz, emeritus archbishop, and Leonardo Steiner of Manaus complete the delegation. Brazil’s presence reflects Latin America’s significance, home to 40% of the world’s Catholics. Their contributions in general congregations shape the debate on the Church’s future.