Introduction
The Papal Conclave is one of the most solemn processes in the Catholic Church, a mechanism through which cardinals elect the new Supreme Pontiff following the death of a pope, such as Pope Francis. This tradition-laden, secretive, and spiritual ritual is governed by the Constitution Apostolica Universi Dominici Gregis, capturing global attention.
The Beginning of the Conclave
The Conclave formally commences with a mass called “Pro eligendo Pontifice” at St. Peter’s Basilica, where cardinals eligible to vote (those under 80 years old) participate. They then proceed in a solemn procession to the Sistine Chapel, chanting “Veni, Creator Spiritus” (Come, Holy Spirit), invoking the Holy Ghost. Upon entering, they swear to maintain absolute secrecy about the proceedings.
Secrecy and Isolation
During the Conclave, cardinals are completely isolated from the outside world and cannot use phones, internet, or any other communication means. They reside under strict surveillance in the Casa Santa Marta, unable to communicate with the outside world.
The Voting Process
The voting process can last from hours to several days:
- Preparation for Scrutiny: Each cardinal receives a ballot with a slip of paper on which they write the name of their chosen candidate.
- First Vote: On the first day, there is typically only one vote; subsequently, up to four votes are cast daily (two in the morning and two in the afternoon).
- Counting and Burning of Ballots: To be elected, a candidate requires two-thirds of the votes. If there is no majority, the ballots are burned with chemicals producing black smoke, signaling that the required majority has not been reached. Once the majority is attained, white smoke indicates a new pope has been chosen.
Acceptance and Selection of Papal Name
The senior cardinal then asks the elected: “Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?” If the cardinal accepts, they are asked: “What is your chosen name as Pope?” The new pope then selects their papal name.
The New Pope’s Inauguration
The new pope is taken to the “Room of Tears,” where he changes from his traditional purple vestments to white, symbolizing the beginning of his papacy.
“Habemus Papam”
The cardinal dean then announces from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica: “Habemus Papam!” (We have a Pope!), mentions the new pope’s baptismal name, and reveals his papal name. The new pontiff appears, greets the crowd, and delivers his first blessing: Urbi et Orbi (to the city and the world).
Key Questions and Answers
- What is a Papal Conclave? A solemn process in the Catholic Church where cardinals elect a new pope following the death or resignation of the previous one.
- Where does the Conclave take place? The Sistine Chapel within Vatican City.
- How are the votes counted? Cardinals write their chosen candidate’s name on a ballot, which is then counted. Two-thirds of the votes are required for election.
- What happens after a new pope is elected? The new pope is taken to the “Room of Tears” to change into white vestments, symbolizing his new role. He then delivers his first blessing, Urbi et Orbi, from St. Peter’s Basilica balcony.
