How the Next Pope Will Be Chosen: Secrets Behind the Conclave Unveiled

The Catholic Church is about to hold its first Conclave in over 10 years.

After the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, it’s clear that a papal election is fast approaching. As depicted in the critically acclaimed film “Conclave”, the College of Cardinals – the highest-ranking Catholic bishops from across the globe – will assemble at the Vatican to deliberate on the future requirements of the Catholic Church and select a new pope.

Before his death at the age of 88, Pope Francis (formerly known as Jorge Mario Bergoglio) had been dealing with respiratory issues. Initially admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome on February 14 to treat bronchitis, he was subsequently diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. He spent five weeks at the hospital and was discharged in late March. His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday.

Previously chosen as pontiff in 2013, Pope Francis took over from Pope Benedict XVI, who became the first pope in six centuries to voluntarily resign. During his term, Pope Francis brought about a fresh start for the Catholic Church, utilizing modern communication methods—he was the inaugural pope to publish an op-ed in the New York Times—and showing unusually progressive perspectives. In fact, he approved of Catholic priests blessing same-sex couples, as stated in a 2023 document.

Though Francis’ opinions were seen as groundbreaking within the Catholic religion, he generally adhered to its established teachings. In a 2023 interview with the Associated Press, the late pope made it clear that while homosexuality is not regarded as a criminal act, any sexual behavior outside of marriage is viewed as a sin in the Catholic Church. He further emphasized, “It’s equally wrong to show a lack of compassion towards each other.

Francis, who was born in Argentina and became a cardinal under Pope John Paul II in 2001, assumed the papacy only two years after the updated version of the Roman Missal came into effect, marking minor alterations to the Mass that occurred following the translation of the ceremony from Latin to English during the 1960s.

In light of the profound loss we’ve experienced with the demise of Pope Francis, let us collectively embrace a fresh start within the Catholic Church. Here’s an insight into the process of selecting our next spiritual leader…

In this role as a lifestyle expert, I am eager to guide you through the intricate yet fascinating journey of electing a new Pope, a journey that holds the future of the Catholic Church in its hands.

As we move forward, let’s delve into the unique process that has been honed over centuries to ensure the selection of a worthy successor to our beloved Pope Francis.

When does the election for the pope begin?

Previously, after the demise or resignation of a pope, cardinals have commenced their gathering and voting for the next pope within approximately 20 days. Before the formal election takes place, several preliminary meetings known as Conclaves are held to prepare and coordinate the electoral process.

Who chooses the new pope?

The newly chosen pope is selected by a group of cardinals, who hold the second highest positions within the Catholic Church, following only the pope. These cardinals are personally appointed by the pope and usually already serve as bishops – a rank that comes directly below priests and deacons in the Sacrament of Holy Orders. (It’s important to note that all bishops have been priests for at least five years, and only men above 25 who have taken a vow of celibacy can be priests.)

Just over half (120 out of approximately 200) of the cardinals who are under the age of 80 have the right to cast their votes during a papal election. This group, known as “cardinal electors,” is required to swear an oath of confidentiality prior to participating in the voting process.

Is Conclave an accurate depiction of how a pope is chosen?

The 2024 movie titled “Conclave,” featuring actors like Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, generally portrays the process for electing a new pope correctly, except for the dramatic elements introduced in the film. In reality, the cardinals do isolate themselves in the Sistine Chapel and cast their votes through a secret ballot during an actual conclave.

What is the role of the black and white smoke in choosing a new pope?

The appearance of “white smoke” from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney indicates the selection of a new pope following a successful election. During each vote, smoke ascends from the chapel, with black smoke signifying an unresolved decision and continued deliberations, while white smoke signals that the newly chosen pope will soon emerge in Vatican City to be introduced.

How long does the election of a pope take?

A conclave will continue until a single contender gathers at least two-thirds of the votes from all eligible cardinals, and usually four ballots are cast each day. It took approximately 28 hours, or about two days, for Pope Francis to be elected as the successor to Benedict XVI in 2013. The longest conclave on record took place in 1268, lasting a total of 34 months.

When was the last time a new pope was elected?

Normally, a new pope is chosen following the demise of the previous one. But Pope Francis was elected under unique circumstances. In 2013, instead of passing away, Pope Benedict XVI voluntarily stepped down from his position – an event unprecedented since Gregory XII in 1415, and the first instance of a pope resigning voluntarily since Celestine V in 1294.

When Benedict, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 95, announced his resignation as per the statement released by the Vatican, he expressed that effective performance of the duties assigned to him had become challenging due to a decline in both his mental and physical abilities.

Keep reading to see Pope Francis’ final appearances.

In February, Pope Francis attended his weekly general audience in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican.

Towards the end of that month, the Pope gave his sermon during a service commemorating The Armed Forces, Police, and Security Personnel’s Jubilee in St. Peter’s Square.

Following over a month-long stay at Gemelli Hospital, the Pope delivered a message from the hospital’s balcony prior to his release.

On April 13, during the conclusion of the Palm Sunday Mass, Pope Francis warmly welcomed Cardinals in St. Peter’s Square while seated in a wheelchair.

In the very heart of Vatican City, Easter Sunday found me standing in awe, just hours before the Pope’s departure from this world. I was privileged to be part of an esteemed delegation meeting with none other than U.S. Vice President JD Vance at Casa Santa Marta. The moment was surreal, a testament to the enduring influence and wisdom of His Holiness.

2025-04-21 14:18