On Friday, workers set up a chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, signaling when Cardinals will gather to elect a successor for Pope Francis.
Firefighters were seen getting the necessary equipment ready ahead of the conclave scheduled for next Wednesday.
During the conclave, Cardinals engage in secret voting, needing a two-thirds majority to elect a new leader. After each voting round, results are announced and then the ballots are burned. The smoke produced provides updates for those watching in St. Peter’s Square, indicating the status of the election.
Black smoke from the chapel suggests that another voting session is about to take place, and, ultimately, a new leader for the Roman Catholic Church will be chosen.
JD Vance describes his meeting with Pope Francis before his passing as a “sign from God.”
The Sistine Chapel has been closed to the public for over a week now as the Vatican prepares for the conclave.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.
A convicted cardinal has announced he will not participate in the conclave to select a successor for Pope Francis.
“My dear brothers and sisters, I must convey with deep sadness the news of my holy father, Francis’s death. This morning, at 7:35, the Bishop of Rome returned home,” was mentioned regarding his demise. His life was, after all, dedicated to the church.
“He emphasized living the gospel’s values with faithfulness and compassion, particularly for the poor and marginalized.”
