Cardinal electors from around the world assembled in Vatican City today to begin the secretive process of choosing the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. The 2025 papal conclave, convening in the Sistine Chapel, brings together 133 voting cardinals representing 71 nations-the most geographically diverse group in the Church’s history. This conclave marks a pivotal moment for the Church’s 1.4 billion faithful, as the cardinals seek a successor who can guide the institution through a complex and rapidly changing world.
The day began with a solemn Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals. During the Mass, prayers were offered for unity and for divine guidance in the selection of a new pontiff. Afterward, the cardinals processed to the Sistine Chapel, where they took an oath of absolute secrecy, swearing not to reveal any details of the proceedings, either during or after the election. Once the doors were closed and the “extra omnes” command given, the conclave officially began.
Voting is conducted by secret ballot, with each cardinal writing the name of their chosen candidate and depositing it before Michelangelo’s iconic fresco of the Last Judgment. A two-thirds majority is required for election, and voting can occur up to four times per day-twice in the morning and twice in the evening-until a new pope is chosen. After each round, the ballots are burned: black smoke signals an inconclusive vote, while white smoke and the ringing of St. Peter’s bells will announce the successful election of the new pope to the world.
Speculation about potential frontrunners has been intense, with names such as Cardinal Luis Tagle of the Philippines, Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana, and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa of Jerusalem frequently mentioned. However, with 80% of the electors appointed by Pope Francis and many participating in a conclave for the first time, experts caution that the outcome remains highly unpredictable. The world now watches and waits as the cardinals deliberate, seeking a leader who can address both the spiritual and practical challenges facing the Church today.
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(Source: AP | Reuters | Vatican News)
