The Upcoming Papal Conclave: The Search for the Next Pope
Door Remains Securely Shut Since 5:46 PM
Here's the lowdown on the upcoming papal conclave happening right this instance at the Vatican's Sistine Chapel. The door sealed shut at 17:46, marking the start of the event. Inside, 133 cardinals are holed up, about to choose their next leader.
The world's watching. It's been more than a decade since this spectacle took place. So, what does this mean? If white smoke billows, the Catholic church has a new leader. But if it's black, well, they're still working on it.
The Sistine Chapel has transformed into a fortress, with all eyes on that chimney on the roof. But don't expect a quick decision - it could be sometime this week. But remember, nothing is guaranteed. The smoke signals will reveal whether it's a done deal or they're still in session.
The Players
The proceedings began with the first ballot in the afternoon. Word on the street is that the smoke could rise between 19:00 and 20:00 for the first time. Fingers crossed it's white.
These men can't just hole up in the Vatican guesthouse Santa Marta for the entire duration without some breaks. They gather for meals and have plenty of time to chat, pray, or read. And who knows, they might even share a juicy secret or two later.
In the Running
The Conclave this time is larger and more internationally represented than ever before. The expected number of votes required is 89, as several new church leaders were appointed during the previous Pope's tenure. Some suspect it might take longer than usual. But don't worry, in the last few decades, all Conclaves have been wrapped up within two or three days, so we're still optimistic.
Before the official start, the cardinals processed in a solemn ceremony, took an oath, and prepared themselves for the arduous task ahead. The voting continues with up to four ballots, all happening behind the chapel door - and under strict silence rules. Sometimes we do find out some details later, like what happened back in 2013 when Pope Francis was elected.
The morning kicked off with a solemn Mass in St. Peter's Basilica, led by the Dean of the College of Cardinals. The electoral assembly is being led by Pietro Parolin, a favorite to succeed Pope Francis, having served as the Vatican's Secretary of State during his reign.
Other cardinals in the mix include Matteo Zuppi, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Jean-Marc-Aveline, José Tolentino de Mendonça, Peter Erdő, and Jean-Claude Hollerich. This race is tight, and the field keeps expanding day by day.
Let's see who takes the crown! Stay tuned for updates.
Sources:ntv.dejog.decatholic-link.org
- The upcoming papal conclave, taking place at the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, involves 133 cardinals from various international regions.
- The Catholic church's new leader will be signaled by white smoke, whereas black smoke suggests ongoing deliberations.
- Politically, the Conclave this time has a higher number of votes required, as several new church leaders were appointed during the previous Pope's tenure.
- The Pope, often referred to as the leader of the Catholic church, will be selected through a series of ballots guided by strict silence rules.
