The process of selecting a new Pope will kick off on Wednesday, as the Cardinals move into a secluded conclave. This ritual has deep roots, tracing back to medieval traditions. They will enter the Sistine Chapel after a public mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral, aiming to find a successor for Pope Francis, who died last month.
Historically, the election process has not been resolved on the first day; it’s common for the voting to extend over several days. The Cardinals need a two-thirds majority to eventually appoint the 267th Pope.
On the first day, only one vote will take place. Following that, they can cast votes up to four times daily.
The presence of black smoke from the chapel’s chimney signifies a decisive yet unsuccessful vote, while white smoke and the ringing of bells announce the election of a new leader for the 1.4 billion members of the Church.
The role of the Pope extends far beyond church boundaries, often addressing moral questions that resonate with global leaders as well.
Cardinals have differing views on the qualities they seek in the next Pope. Some are inclined towards continuity and transparency as seen under Francis, while others favor a return to traditional practices.
A notable record of 133 cardinals from 70 countries will participate, an increase from 115 cardinals from 48 countries in the last conclave back in 2013. This shift reflects Francis’ efforts to broaden the Church’s reach in regions with fewer Catholics.
Leading contenders seem to be Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, though no obvious frontrunners have emerged yet.
Should it become evident that these candidates cannot secure victory, attention may shift to others based on geographical and theological considerations.
Potential alternatives include Jean-Marc Abelin from France, Peter Eldo from Hungary, Robert Prevast from the U.S., and Piabattista Pizzabara from Italy.
Italian Cardinal Mario Zenari advised patience, telling reporters to “wait and watch” as the process unfolds.
Like during medieval times, Cardinals are restricted from communicating with the outside world during the conclave, and the Vatican has implemented advanced security measures to maintain confidentiality, including devices that hinder eavesdropping.
Historically, the last ten conclaves averaged only three days, with none exceeding five days. The conclave in 2013 wrapped up in just two days.
The Cardinals seem keen to conclude this selection swiftly, aiming to dispel any notions of division within the Church.
Interestingly, about 80% of the Cardinals entering the Sistine Chapel this week were appointed by Francis, which might tilt the elections toward a successor who continues his more progressive agenda, despite traditional opposition.
Among the discussions is whether the Church should select a Pope from the expanding global south, as they did in 2013, or whether to revert the focus back to Europe, or even consider appointing the first Pope from the U.S.
