What is a Conclave?

The Conclave is an ancient and highly ceremonial process. On the first day, the Conclave begins with a Mass attended by all eligible voting cardinals from around the world. Pope Francis ensured that this was better balanced this time around. They receive guidance and instruction before entering the chapel to begin their deliberations.

How many people does it involve?

There is normally to be no more than 120 cardinals. However, Pope Francis appointed more. As a cardinal must be under 80 years old to have the eligibility to participate in the vote, this can also impact numbers. So, out of the 138 cardinals that are eligible, they will then become Cardinal Electors.

Who can be elected Pope?

Technically, any baptised male can be elected as pope, but in practice, the cardinals always choose one of their own. The last time a non-cardinal was elected was Pope Urban VI in 1378. Since then, the tradition has remained strong, with the conclave selecting a cardinal who is already deeply involved in the Church’s leadership. It does, however, pose an interesting blend of possibility and tradition.

What is a cardinal? 

Cardinals hold immense influence within the Church, serving as the Pope’s closest advisors and playing a crucial role in governance. Their most significant duty is electing the next Pope, ensuring continuity in leadership, and guiding the Church’s future direction. Their decisions shape history.

How long does the Conclave take? 

The Conclave cannot start until 15 days after the death of the pope and must take place within 20 days after his death. The 1922 papal conclave was one of the longer ones in recent history, lasting five days. While five days might seem lengthy, it’s relatively short compared to some historical conclaves that stretched for months. Let’s hope we don’t have to wait that long…

How is the new pope decided? 

The cardinals cast their votes in secrecy twice a day, aiming to reach a two-thirds majority for a single candidate. If no decision is made after seven ballots, the cardinals take a day for prayer and reflection before resuming the process. Even in secrecy, conclaves aren’t free from factionalism and behind-the-scenes manoeuvring. Cardinals often form alliances, lobby, and strategise, balancing faith with politics. History is full of intrigue within papal elections!

Where does it happen? 

The Conclave for the election of the Pope is held in the Sistine Chapel. Pope John Paul II summed up its importance in the life of the Church “the Sistine Chapel became once again before the whole Catholic Community the place of the action of the Holy Spirit that nominates the Bishops in the Church, and nominates especially he who must be the Bishop of Rome and the Successor of Peter” (1994).

Can the elected cardinal decline? 

A cardinal can theoretically refuse the papacy, but such preferences are usually known before the vote. The discussions leading up to the conclave help ensure that the elected candidate is prepared to accept the role, making refusals extremely rare.

What happens when the new pope is elected? 

The burning of ballots is a key tradition in the conclave. Black smoke signals an inconclusive vote, while white smoke announces the election of a new pope. Chemicals ensure the smoke is clearly visible, making this moment highly anticipated worldwide. Once elected, he accepts the role, chooses a papal name, and is presented to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s a unique mix of faith, tradition, and governance that has shaped history for centuries.

How might a new pope impact the Church? 

An indication of the impact (or direction) a new pope might make regarding his papacy is in the name he chooses. For example, upon his election to the papacy, Pope Francis chose to honour St. Francis of Assisi, known for humility, service to the poor, and care for nature. This unprecedented choice set the tone for his leadership, emphasizing justice, compassion, and environmental stewardship.