2025 papal conclave began on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, as cardinals gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel for the historic event. Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, and the conclave is the first step in the process of choosing a new pope.
What is the Papal Conclave?
To select a new pope, the College of Cardinals convenes for the centuries-old papal conclave. Cardinals debate in secret and swear an oath of secrecy, making it a very private matter. Cardinals need a two-thirds majority to elect a new pope, and only those under 80 can vote in the conclave.
Each time the cardinals vote, the ballots are burned. If the cardinals do not choose a pope, they will release black smoke, signaling that the search continues. Once the cardinals select a new pope, they will signal the election with white smoke.
Commencement of the Conclave in 2025
The election process began Wednesday when cardinals entered the Sistine Chapel. The Catholic Church is now searching for a new head in the wake of Pope Francis’ death. The cardinals are expected to cast their votes behind closed doors. Their goal is to choose a new pope who will guide the Church through a period of profound change.
Who Might Become the Next Pope?
Even though the conclave is still in its early stages, a number of names have surfaced as possible papal contenders. Prominent individuals like Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin are frequently mentioned. They often emerge as potential future popes. The world is watching closely. Everyone is eager to see who will become the next head of the Catholic Church as the conclave continues.
The “Room of Tears” and the Pope’s New Attire
Once the new pope elects, he will enter the “Room of Tears,” where the emotional weight of the responsibility starts to sink in. Here, the pope will don his new white papal vestments in place of his red cardinal uniform. The great burden often causes the new pope to cry. This is why people call this room the “Room of Tears.”
The World Awaits the New Pope
As the conclave continues, the world waits eagerly for the moment when white smoke signals the election of a new pope. In Vatican City and beyond, the Catholic faithful are hoping for a new leader. They hope this leader will guide the Church in the years ahead.
Source: USA Today