It has now been weeks since the passing of Pope Francis, and the process of finding the next Pope has just begun. This process, foreign to many, is known as the papal conclave. The process has existed for over 800 years, beckoning hundreds of Cardinals to flock to Vatican City to choose the next pontiff, or new pope, for the Catholic Church. The process began yesterday grabbing the attention of many across the world as a new selection is made.
Pope Francis served a long, reputable term with extreme humility and honor for all humanity. Pope Francis was known and respected by leaders across the globe for his acceptance of all, and his radical ability to challenge the way others think to enact positive change. He stressed the importance of caring for our Earth and everything on it. His lessons of humility and authenticity were admired by many, and he will be deeply missed.
The Catholic Church began their papal conclave on May 7, 2025. The College of Cardinals are among those who may vote for a new pontiff, and of the 252 cardinals that exist, only 138 are eligible to vote. The first morning of the conclave, the eligible cardinals are sequestered into the Sistine Chapel and will not be able to leave until a new pope is selected. From there, the cardinals cast their vote. A two-thirds majority is required to select a new pope. There is no definite time limit on the conclave, meaning it will last as long as it needs to before a new pope is selected. Historically, the conclave has lasted for days, months, and in 1268, the conclave lasted two whole years. The cardinals were eventually forced into a diet of just water and bread to influence them to decide. In most cases, the process takes only a few days. It is observed by millions around the world, all anxiously anticipating the news to come. While the papal conclave process may seem lengthy from an external perspective, it is rich with tradition from the history of the Catholic Church. As previously mentioned, this process has existed in its entirety for over 800 years.
The chimney of the Sistine Chapel releases smoke twice a day throughout the conclave, with black smoke rising when a pope has not yet been selected. Once a pontiff is selected, the public is notified by white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel chimney. At this point, people will crowd in St. Peter’s Square to await the reveal of the new pope. This symbol is one of many that exist throughout the papal conclave. Most of the conclave is spoken in Latin and is laced with historical symbols and rich tradition.
The process will only happen a few times during one’s life and should be observed for its historical value and impact not only for Catholics but people worldwide. Throughout the coming days, the event will be available to view through many sources.
Sadie Blace is a Dakota Student Section Editor. She can be reached at [email protected].
