The College of Cardinals will convene in Vatican City on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, for the sacred task of electing a new pope after the death of Pope Francis on April 21. This event initiates the papal conclave, an ancient tradition in which cardinals under 80 vote in strict isolation inside the Sistine Chapel to select the next Bishop of Rome. White smoke will rise from the chapel’s chimney when a pope is chosen; black smoke indicates inconclusive voting. Among the most talked-about candidates are Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo. This tradition demonstrates the reverence, secrecy, and precision of the papacy from a pontiff’s death to the rise of his successor.
History of the Papal Conclave: Centuries of Seclusion and Symbolism
The tradition of electing a new pope dates back nearly 1,000 years, born out of the need to maintain order, unity, and divine discernment in the Catholic Church. The papal conclave, from the Latin cum clave meaning “with a key,” was formalized in the 13th century to prevent political interference in papal succession. This process has changed little over the centuries, remaining anchored in solemnity and secrecy.
The cardinals are sequestered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, entirely isolated from the outside world until the election is complete. Their ballots, prayers, and deliberations are conducted in silence, away from political influence or public pressure. The enduring legacy of the conclave reflects the Catholic Church’s spiritual governance and unwavering continuity through generations.
Watch the full papal conclave live.
From Death to White Smoke: How a Pope Is Chosen
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, Vatican officials began the time-honored rites surrounding the end of a pontificate. His body was placed in St. Peter’s Basilica for public mourning while the College of Cardinals made preparations for the conclave. Pope Francis, elected in 2013, leaves a legacy of humility, social advocacy, and pastoral reform. His passing marks not only the end of an era but also a moment of spiritual reflection for over a billion Catholics worldwide.
On May 7, cardinals under the age of 80 will enter conclave to begin the process of electing the next pope. Four votes are allowed each day. Ballots are burned after each session, with black smoke signaling no decision. When consensus is reached and a new pope is elected by a two-thirds majority, a special chemical is added to produce white smoke—signifying joyful news to the world. This deeply symbolic act reaffirms the Church’s mission and continuity.
The “first vote” can be viewed here: Video.
Names of potential popes, or papabili, include Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo. Each carries global significance, theological depth, and unique perspectives that could shape the Church’s future in profound ways. Their selection would reflect diverse hopes for renewal, evangelization, and guidance across continents.
Follow the pope election live.
Takeaway: Papal Precision Reflects Spiritual Order and Global Significance
From the sacred moment a pope dies to the instant white smoke rises above the Sistine Chapel, the Catholic Church enacts a solemn drama of divine order and ecclesial tradition. No element is rushed or compromised. The election process ensures not just a new leader, but a symbol of continuity, sanctity, and apostolic succession. It honors the deceased pope’s life while preparing the faithful for a renewed spiritual era.
This refined ritual—centuries in the making—embodies the Church’s global authority, historical reverence, and spiritual unity. The death of Pope Francis and the coming conclave remind the world that, even in moments of grief and transition, the papacy moves with prayerful precision, theological depth, and divine direction. Every incense-filled step, from mourning to proclamation, reveals a sacred choreography rooted in heaven and history.