Cardinals Gather for Papal Conclave

On Wednesday, 133 Cardinals convened at the Sistine Chapel to elect the next Pope. This event, known as the conclave, is among the most ancient election procedures worldwide. Over the course of days or even weeks, the Cardinals will cast their votes multiple times until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority. Only then will they be recognized as the successor to Pope Francis.

As reported by a journalist from The Guardian, the election is filled with detailed explanations, ceremonies, and traditions, but it’s also not without its murky aspects. Cardinals navigate the corridors and gardens of the Vatican, engaging in lobbying. There are rumors of information leaks to the media aimed at undermining opponents. Interestingly, a video has surfaced featuring one cardinal singing a parody called “The Next Pope” to the tune of John Lennon’s “Imagine.”

This conclave, as noted by another journalist, arises at a particularly delicate moment for the Catholic Church, with various factions vying for influence and control.

So, when that iconic white smoke rises, who will be the one named Pope?