Cardinals Gather for Conclave to Elect Successor to Pope Francis
VATICAN CITY—One hundred and thirty-three cardinals have begun a conclave to select the 267th Pope, following the tenure of Pope Francis. Enclosed within the Vatican’s historic walls, the cardinals will engage in secretive, silent voting under Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. This election process is steeped in tradition and spirituality, shielded from external influence, as the Vatican has mandated the relinquishing of mobile devices and employed signal jammers to enhance security.
Voting will continue until one candidate garners a two-thirds majority—89 votes. In the first round on May 7, 2025, black smoke revealed no decision had been reached, dispersing crowds awaiting results. The cardinals, notably more diverse, reflect Catholicism’s growing presence in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Once a new Pope is elected, he will choose a papal name, a significant indicator of his intended direction for the Church. This selection carries historical weight, reminiscent of previous pontiffs who shaped global moral conversations on critical issues from social justice to environmental concerns. The anticipation of "Habemus Papam!" echoes around St. Peter’s Basilica as faithful await news of their new leader, symbolizing hope and renewal within the Church.
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