On Tuesday, the Conclave commenced at 4:40 PM local time to elect the next Pope.
This process is usually followed closely, but understanding the details can clarify what’s happening. Some people may find the structure and practices of the church a bit confusing.
Who is Who
Before diving into the Conclave, it’s crucial to understand who the key players are.
The Pope
The Pope serves as the leader of the Catholic Church and is often regarded as the representative of Christ on Earth. After a Pope’s death, the apostolic see becomes vacant, which is referred to as “apostolic vacancy.” This signifies that no one holds the position until a new Pope is elected.
Cardinals
Cardinals are bishops who have been appointed by the Pope and serve on a council referred to as the College of Cardinals. They hold significant roles in church administration and governance, being responsible for key parishes around the globe, such as those in New York, Chicago, Boston, Washington, DC, Baltimore, and Newark in the U.S.
While there are more functions within this group, it’s essential to recognize that Cardinals are the ones who convene in Rome after the Pope’s passing. This period involves meetings where they organize church governance and familiarize themselves with one another, especially since many have limited interaction with each other throughout the year.
Importantly, only Cardinals under 80 years old can participate in voting during the Conclave, totaling 134 eligible out of 252 Cardinals this time around.
Although Cardinals over 80 can be elected to the Papacy, only those who are ordained can be considered. Historically, non-Cardinals have served a Pope only a few times, with the last instance traced back to 1378.
Vatican Staff
While voting is restricted to Cardinals, Vatican staff members play crucial support roles during the Conclave. They, too, are bound by secrecy, facing excommunication from the Catholic Church for any breach of confidentiality. Only the Pope or a designated representative can lift this penalty.
A Bit of History
It’s beneficial to reflect on the history of the Conclave and how it has evolved. From its inception, the selection of the Pope has been crucial. By 1059, it was established that only Cardinals could vote, and requirements for elections were solidified in 1179 during the third Lateran Council, which called for a two-thirds majority for election.
In 1271, after a prolonged conclave, Pope Gregory X mandated that Cardinals remain secluded until a decision was reached and stipulated that food supplies would gradually decrease the longer the conclave lasted—a rule that has since been lifted.
The voting element of the Conclave started at the Sistine Chapel in 1492, a venue for this process ever since. In 1970, an age limit of 80 was set for voting, marking this conclave with the highest number of eligible cardinals.
Voting Process
Now, how does a Conclave function? The term “Conclave” encompasses the entire duration from the initial procession of Cardinals to the Sistine Chapel, where they chant “Veni Creator Spiritus” until a new Pope is elected and accepts the position.
The actual voting sessions involve casting, counting, and burning ballots. During these sessions, only the Cardinal electors are present. Voting involves two rounds each session, where each Cardinal writes down their selected candidate and places the vote on the altar after a solemn vow.
This process is repeated, with results announced after each round. The distinctive white or black smoke signals whether a Pope has been elected or not. The first day typically allows for just one vote, followed by two votes on each subsequent day.
Acceptance
If a candidate receives a two-thirds majority—this time, the required number is 89—they must accept the role. Importantly, no one can compel another to take on the role of Pope. If the candidate agrees, they move to a small room adjacent to the chapel, known as the “Room of Tears,” acknowledging the profound emotional weight of the moment.
This room contains cassocks in various sizes and colors for the new Pope to choose from, along with shoes in red, white, or black. Once dressed, he proceeds to the “Loggia” of St. Peter’s Basilica to address the public for the first time.
Throughout the voting, Cardinals remain in the Sistine Chapel, retreating only to the nearby Domus Sanctae Marthae for meals and rest, staying within the boundaries of Vatican City. They uphold their commitment to prayer and discussions until they’ve chosen the next Pope.
Secrecy of the Procedure
The Conclave is renowned for its secrecy, making it challenging for the media to accurately report on deliberations and outcomes. Being informed about the internal dynamics of church governance requires substantial knowledge of the history, recent documents, and existing ecclesiastical authority.
Potential frontrunners for the position this time include Cardinals Parolin and Tagle, often seen as more liberal, alongside Cardinals Pizzaballa and Ecard, leaning towards conservative views. One of these candidates might soon be seen at St. Peter’s Loggia, though the future is always uncertain.
Prayers are encouraged for the Cardinals, that they may wisely select a Pope, a Christian leader to guide the Church.
