How Does the Conclave Pick a New Pope? 8 Things to Know

Introduction

• The world will learn of the new pope when he appears in St. Peter’s Square.
• The College of Cardinals will gather to elect a successor to Pope Francis, who died on April 21.
• "Conclave" derives from a Latin term for a locked room.

Timing of the Conclave

• Begins May 7, 2025, the first conclave since 2013.
• Must start 15-20 days after the papal chair is vacated.

Location of the Conclave

• Takes place in Vatican City.
• Cardinals celebrate a special Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica before voting in the Sistine Chapel.

Duration of the Conclave

• Voting until a two-thirds majority elects a new pope.
• 1st day: one vote in the afternoon; subsequent days: two votes each morning and afternoon.
• If no decision after 3 days, voting pauses for prayer and discussion.
• Historically, conclaves rarely exceed three days.

Eligibility to Vote

• Only cardinals under age 80 can vote.
• 135 cardinals eligible in 2025, with two opting out for health reasons.

Eligibility to Become Pope

• Any baptized Catholic male can be elected.
• Must be ordained as a bishop upon election.

Voting Process

• No electronic voting.
• Paper ballots are burned after counting.
• Black smoke indicates no decision; white smoke signals a new pope is chosen.

Secrecy of the Conclave

• Ensures no recording or communication devices are present.
• Cardinals are isolated from external communication.
• Secrecy prevents external influence and emphasizes spiritual decision-making.

Post-Election Procedures

• The elected pope accepts the role and chooses a papal name.
• The new pope receives new robes and symbols of office.
• Cardinals pledge obedience.
• Announced to the public with "Habemus Papam" followed by the pope's blessing.

Conclusion

• The process is a blend of tradition, spirituality, and strict protocol aimed at ensuring a fair and spiritually guided election of the new leader of the Catholic Church.