The process of electing a new pope.

          The process of electing a new pope.

                                        St. Peter's BasilicaPhoto: AFP file photo

For centuries, the selection of the leader of the Roman Catholic Church has occurred within the confines of the Vatican, shrouded in secrecy and conducted behind closed doors. This revered and time-honored procedure is initiated upon the death or resignation of the sitting Pope, leading to a convocation of cardinals from across the globe to elect his successor.

Many of these cardinals hold the positions of bishops and archbishops in their home countries, having been appointed by the Pope to provide leadership and support to the worldwide Catholic community. Some operate within the Vatican, while others are dispersed across various continents, addressing the spiritual needs of millions.

When the moment arrives to choose a new Pope, only those cardinals who are under the age of 80 are called to Rome. Upon their arrival, they engage in a solemn religious ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica. Later that afternoon, they proceed, clad in their ceremonial robes and in silence, to the Sistine Chapel for the conclave—a highly private and symbolic gathering where the voting occurs.

The process commences with an oath of secrecy. The Sistine Chapel is meticulously inspected to ensure the absence of any concealed microphones or cameras. The cardinals are cautioned that any violation of this confidentiality will result in their expulsion.

                       St. Peter's Square located in Vatican City. Image credit: Reuters file photo.

Each cardinal is provided with a paper ballot inscribed with the Latin phrase: *“Eligo in Summum Pontificem”*—meaning “I elect as Supreme Pontiff.” Below this phrase, they inscribe the name of the person they believe should be the next Pope, with the writing of one's own name being strictly prohibited.

In order of seniority, the cardinals approach the altar one by one. With a profound sense of responsibility, they deposit their folded ballots into a designated receptacle.

Once all ballots have been cast, the counting process begins. The results are announced to the assembly, and a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority to be elected.

If no candidate attains the requisite number of votes, the voting process continues. Each day consists of four voting rounds—two in the morning and two in the afternoon. On the fifth day, the cardinals take a break for a day dedicated to prayer and contemplation. Following this pause, voting resumes, which may extend for up to seven additional rounds, interspersed with breaks, until a consensus is achieved.

Ultimately, when a cardinal garners the necessary votes, the ballots are incinerated, resulting in white smoke rising over Vatican City, signaling to the world that a new Pope has been elected.

Shortly thereafter, the newly elected Pope appears on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, looking out over the multitude of faithful gathered below. A new chapter in the history of the Church commences.