The election of a new pope, known as a papal conclave, is a centuries-old process steeped in tradition, secrecy, and solemnity. When the current pope dies or resigns (as Pope Benedict XVI did in 2013), the Catholic Church follows a strict procedure to choose his successor. Here’s a detailed look at how the next pope will be selected.
1. The Death or Resignation of the Pope
The process begins when the reigning pope either passes away or voluntarily steps down. In modern times, resignation is rare—the last pope to resign before Benedict XVI was Gregory XII in 1415. Once the papacy is vacant, the College of Cardinals takes charge of the election.
2. The Interregnum and the Camerlengo
During the period between popes (called the sede vacante, or “vacant seat”), the Camerlengo (Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church) assumes temporary administrative duties. He:
- Oversees the Vatican’s daily operations.
- Formally verifies the pope’s death (or resignation).
- Arranges the funeral (if applicable).
- Prepares for the conclave.
The Dean of the College of Cardinals then summons cardinals to Rome for the election.
3. The College of Cardinals
Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the conclave (per Pope John Paul II’s 1996 decree). As of 2023, there are about 120 cardinal-electors, though the exact number varies.
Key Roles:
- Dean of the College of Cardinals: Leads the conclave.
- Camerlengo: Manages the Vatican during the interregnum.
- Cardinal Electors: Vote in the conclave.
4. The Conclave: Locking in the Cardinals
The word “conclave” comes from Latin cum clave (“with a key”), referring to the cardinals being locked inside the Sistine Chapel until they elect a new pope.
Pre-Conclave Meetings (General Congregations)
Before voting begins, cardinals hold discussions on Church issues. These meetings help them gauge potential candidates.
Secrecy and Isolation
- Cardinals stay at the Domus Sanctae Marthae (a Vatican guesthouse).
- All electronic communication is blocked to prevent leaks.
- The Sistine Chapel is swept for recording devices.
5. The Voting Process
The conclave follows strict rules for voting:
Ballot Structure
- Each cardinal writes a name on a ballot paper.
- Votes are cast in multiple rounds (up to four per day).
- A two-thirds majority is required for election (unless no pope is chosen after several rounds, in which case a simple majority may be allowed).
Scrutineers, Revisers, and Infirmarii
- Scrutineers count the votes.
- Revisers double-check the count.
- Infirmarii collect votes from cardinals too ill to attend.
Ballot Burning
After each round, ballots are burned:
- Black smoke = No pope elected.
- White smoke = New pope chosen.
6. Acceptance and Announcement
Once a cardinal receives the required votes:
- The Dean of the College asks if he accepts.
- If he accepts, he chooses a papal name (e.g., Francis, Benedict, John Paul).
- The new pope is dressed in white papal vestments.
- The famous announcement: “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”).
- The pope gives his first blessing (Urbi et Orbi—”to the city and the world”).
7. The Papal Inauguration Mass
The new pope celebrates a formal Mass, receiving the Fisherman’s Ring (symbolizing papal authority) and the Pallium (a woolen vestment).
Possible Changes in Future Conclaves
While the process has remained largely unchanged for centuries, some speculate about reforms, such as:
- Expanding the electorate (allowing non-cardinals to vote).
- Adjusting the two-thirds majority rule.
- Greater transparency (though secrecy is a key tradition).
Conclusion
The election of a new pope is a sacred and meticulously planned event, blending ancient rituals with modern security. The next conclave will follow this time-honored process, ensuring the continuity of the Catholic Church’s leadership.
