The papal conclave has begun with 133 cardinals gathering in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next pope. Black smoke from the chimney signaled that the first ballot did not result in a new leader. The cardinals will continue voting in the coming days, with the need for a two-thirds majority to elect a pope. Approximately 30,000 to 45,000 people gathered in St. Peter's Square, awaiting the outcome. The process involves prayer, reflection, and multiple ballots until a new pope is chosen.
9 days ago
The conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis began on May 7, 2025, with 133 cardinal electors entering the Sistine Chapel to cast their first ballot 2 5. Black smoke emerged from the chimney at approximately 9:00 p.m. Rome time, signaling that no candidate had secured the required two-thirds majority (89 votes) 1 2 6. This outcome was widely anticipated, as first-ballot papal elections are rare 1 2.
The day began with a Mass pro eligendo Romano Pontifice celebrated by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re in St. Peter's Basilica 9. In the afternoon, the cardinal electors gathered in the Pauline Chapel and processed into the Sistine Chapel, chanting the Litany of the Saints and the hymn "Veni Creator Spiritus," invoking the Holy Spirit 2 8 9. Once inside, each cardinal swore an oath of secrecy, placing his hand on the Gospel 1 8 9. After the proclamation "Extra omnes," all non-essential personnel left the chapel, and Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa delivered a meditation 2 9.
Thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square, awaiting a sign 1 2 7. An estimated 30,000 people were present, many waving flags from various countries 1 2. Despite the expectation of black smoke, many pilgrims expressed excitement and hope 1. Some attendees, like Gabrielle Estrada from San Antonio, Texas, extended their European trips to witness the historic event 1 2. Others, like Maggie Popp from North Dakota, brought their families to experience what they felt was a "once in a lifetime opportunity" 1 5. Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania emphasized the need for a "holy Pope" to guide the Church 7.
Historically, first-ballot elections are uncommon 6. Recent conclaves have been relatively short, with Pope Benedict XVI elected on the fourth ballot in 2005 and Pope Francis on the fifth ballot in 2013 1 2 6. The cardinals will continue voting, with up to four ballots possible each day, until a two-thirds majority is reached 1 2 6. The next smoke signal is expected after the first ballot on May 8th 10. The diversity of the cardinal electors, representing 70 countries, reflects efforts to broaden representation within the Church 9.
The information you're seeking relates to the process of papal elections, specifically the conclave. Here's a breakdown of what happens during a conclave:
Location and Secrecy: The election of the Pope takes place in the Vatican City, specifically within determined areas and buildings, most notably the Sistine Chapel . The location is sealed off to ensure accommodation for the Cardinal electors and those legitimately involved in the election process . Total secrecy is maintained regarding anything said or done that relates to the election . To ensure this, careful checks are conducted to prevent any secret installation of audiovisual equipment used for recording or transmission .
Participants: All Cardinal electors, who are summoned by the Cardinal Dean, are required to attend the conclave unless prevented by illness or another grave impediment . The government of the conclave is managed by the Cardinal Camerlengo and three representative Cardinals who rotate every three days .
Procession and Invocation: On the afternoon the conclave begins, the Cardinal electors gather in the Pauline Chapel of the Apostolic Palace . Dressed in choir robes, they invoke the Holy Spirit by chanting the Veni Creator and then solemnly process to the Sistine Chapel where the election occurs .
Voting Procedures: The usual form of election is by secret ballot, called scrutinium . A successful candidate needs a two-thirds vote, excluding their own vote . The cardinals participate in a Mass of the Holy Spirit and receive the Eucharist . Before voting, they swear an oath to elect someone who will benefit the universal Church, spiritually and temporally, and is suitable for the dignity of the papacy . They also swear not to vote for anyone suspected of aiming to be elected through bribery or other inappropriate means .
Balloting: Each Cardinal submits a ballot card, nominating up to three individuals . If nominating more than one person, the second and third choices must be from outside the College of Cardinals . There is typically one ballot per day, held immediately after the Mass . The ballots are burned immediately after being read, unless someone receives two-thirds of the votes .
Forms of Election: Besides scrutinium (secret ballot), there are other possible forms of election: compromissum, accessus, and quasi-inspiratio .
Requirements for the Elected: While typically a Cardinal is elected Pope, any male Christian who has reached the age of reason can be chosen, but not a heretic, schismatic, or someone guilty of simony .
Acceptance and Proclamation: Once a Pope is elected, he confirms or appoints the Cardinal Camerlengo and receives the Fisherman's Ring . The senior Cardinal-Deacon then announces the election to the people .
Inauguration: If the elected Pope is not a bishop, he must be consecrated immediately by the Cardinal-Bishop of Ostia . If he is already a bishop, only a solemn blessing takes place . The new Pope has full jurisdiction from the moment of election . The papal coronation occurs on the following Sunday or Holy Day, and the Pope dates his pontificate from that day .
The conclave continues until a Pope is successfully elected .