Papal Election: 6 Sacred Steps to Choosing the Next Pope After Francis

Papal Election: 6 Sacred Steps to Choosing the Next Pope After Francis

With the passing of Pope Francis, the global Catholic community now looks to the Vatican, where preparations are underway for the conclave—a centuries-old and deeply spiritual process that will determine the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

This sacred tradition, steeped in ritual and symbolism, will unfold within the ornate walls of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. While the process may appear mysterious to outsiders, it follows a detailed and time-honored path, carried out by the College of Cardinals, who gather in seclusion to cast their votes.

Step 1: The Conclave Begins

Following the mourning period and official funeral rites for Pope Francis, a conclave is convened. The College of Cardinals, consisting of eligible members under the age of 80, is summoned to Vatican City to begin the election. The cardinals swear an oath of secrecy before being sequestered—no outside contact is permitted during the proceedings.

Step 2: Voting in the Sistine Chapel

Voting takes place inside the Sistine Chapel, beneath Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling. Each day, the cardinals can vote up to four times—twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon. Ballots are handwritten and collected in a ceremonial urn.

To be elected, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority of the votes. If no candidate reaches that threshold, the process repeats.

Step 3: Signals of Smoke

The world watches the chimney of the Sistine Chapel for a centuries-old visual signal. After each round of voting, the ballots are burned.

• Black smoke billowing from the chimney indicates that no decision has been reached.
• White smoke, accompanied by the ringing of bells, signifies that a new pope has been chosen.

This moment is one of the most watched events in global religious history.

Step 4: “Habemus Papam” — We Have a Pope

Once a cardinal accepts the papacy, he chooses a papal name and is dressed in the traditional white papal robes. The Senior Cardinal Deacon then steps onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and proclaims to the world: “Habemus Papam” — “We have a pope.”

Shortly after, the new pontiff makes his first public appearance and delivers a blessing to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

Who Can Become Pope?

Technically, any baptized Catholic man is eligible to become pope. However, tradition and practical precedent dictate that the new pope is almost always chosen from among the cardinals.

This unwritten rule reflects the desire for a leader deeply familiar with the workings of the Church, its doctrine, and the global Catholic community.

A Moment of Global Significance

The death of Pope Francis has left a profound impact on millions. As the conclave begins, Catholics across the globe are called to pray for guidance and unity.

While the process is conducted in private, its outcome carries immense influence—not only for the Catholic faithful but for the broader world stage, where the pope often plays a pivotal role in humanitarian, environmental, and interfaith matters.

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Official Vatican Resources

For updates and official information, visit:

• The Holy See (Vatican): https://www.vatican.va

Stay tuned for developments from Rome as the world awaits the signal of white smoke and the announcement of a new spiritual shepherd.