Understanding the Vatican’s Conclave process for electing a new Pope
The process of electing a new pope is known as the conclave, where the College of Cardinals, appointed by the pontiff, gathers in Rome. The term ‘conclave’ derives from the Latin phrase cum clave, meaning "with key", signifying the closed nature of the election process. Approximately 120 cardinal electors, out of more than 220 cardinals worldwide, participate in this significant event, reflecting the contemporary vision set forth by Pope Francis, particularly in promoting an inclusive church.
Upon convening in the Sistine Chapel, typically within 15 to 20 days after the pope’s death, the cardinals follow a strict protocol. After announcing "extra omnes" to exclude all but the voting cardinals and select officials, the doors to the chapel are securely locked, and the cardinals take an oath of secrecy, cutting off all communication with the outside world. Their phones are confiscated, and the chapel is meticulously checked for any listening devices to safeguard confidentiality throughout the conclave.
The conclave takes place at St. Martha’s House, a designated facility near the chapel where the cardinals, including Pope Francis, have resided during prior conclaves. The proceedings commence with a mass, followed by deliberations and voting that ensues daily, both morning and afternoon, until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority. A day is reserved for prayer after every seven ballots, and should the process fail after 30 ballots, a simple majority will suffice for election.
Any baptized male may potentially be elected as pope, but a serving cardinal is typically the choice. Each elector receives a ballot card inscribed with the phrase eligo in summum pontificem, indicating their selection. The secrecy of the ballot does not preclude the possibility of intrigue or lobbying among the cardinals. After each voting round, the ballots are burned, with chemical agents added to produce white smoke for a successful election or black smoke for inconclusive results.
Once a candidate is determined, he is asked to accept the election and decide upon a papal name. Following this, the cardinals vow their allegiance to the newly elected pope, who is then escorted to the adjacent Room of Tears for dressing in the traditional white cassock, skull cap, and red slippers. The Vatican has prepared three sets of vestments to accommodate different sizes.
Finally, the dean of the cardinals announces the election of the new pope from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, addressing the congregation gathered below with the words: “I announce to you with great joy: We have a pope”. This announcement marks a significant moment for Catholics worldwide, signifying the continuation of their faith under new leadership.
