Papal Transgressions: A Brief, Vibrant Overview of a Pontiff's Past as the Conclave Nears to Choose a New Bishop of Rome

In the bustling heart of Rome, columnist Rosie DiManno sheds light on the anomalous occasions unfolding at the Vatican – a place usually brimming with the brrring of phones and digital chatter. This time, though, it's a different story. In the 21st century, where technology reigns supreme, the task of safeguarding secrecy and security during the papal election process is nothing short of daunting.

Prepare for a sceneshift as cardinals make their way to the Sistine Chapel, leaving their cellphones behind, severing ties with the outside world. They'll be buttoned up in a solitary assembly under Michelangelo's Last Judgment, an eerie digital blackout enveloping this age – a stark contrast to the technological advancements we're accustomed to.

The Vatican is no stranger to technological challenges, having experienced hacks in 2022 and 2024. To combat such threats, the Vatican has taken robust measures. Opaque film shrouds windows to foil drones and laser photography, while artificial intelligence is kept at bay, unable to decipher lips. Legions of high-tech eavesdroppers are thwarted as the enclosure transforms into a hermetically sealed zone. The Sistine Chapel's floor is raised, making room for electronic jamming devices. Routine bug sweeps ensure no hidden microphones slip under the radar.

Even if a cardinal managed to sneak a Bluetooth device or smartwatch inside, the wireless connection is nullified, the internal computer system disconnected from the internet, servers safely tucked away at the Vatican library. Emergency communication is facilitated through an encrypted radio network, with cybersecurity infrastructure outsourced to British and Israeli specialists. Military satellites circle overhead, and Swiss Guards are on ground duty, ready for rapid response if needed. Armed with more than their colorful halberds, these guards are trained on machine guns and explosives.

Mostly, the cardinals are anticipated to keep mum when they return to their residence each night, firmly holding fast to their vow of secrecy. They're princes of the church but they're also Timmy and Tammy, quick to indulge in gossip. Any leaks result in excommunication.

As the conclave progresses, one can't help but be reminded of the tumultuous past of papal politics. Dating back to the end of the 13th century, intrigue and manipulation have been a constant feature. The longest conclave, in 1268, lasted an astounding 1006 days. Citizens of Viterbo, growing impatient, walled the electors in, removed the roof, and forced them to reach a decision.

Intrigue ran rampant, with families like the Borgias, the Orsinis, and the Medici using their influence to manipulate and bribe for their preferred candidates. Many popes throughout history have been less-than-holy, engaging in scandal and debauchery.

The likes of Benedict IX, the youngest pope ever at 18, was known for murder, rape, and sodomy. Urban VI was notoriously violent, torturing those who opposed him, culminating in a time of political turmoil and the creation of an antipope. Alexander VI was a master of nepotism, appointing family members to key positions, while John XII allegedly died in the arms of his mistress.

Then there was Stephen VI, who dug up his deceased predecessor, Formosus, and had him put on trial for simony and other charges. After being found guilty, the corpse was stripped, dressed as a pauper, and thrown into a shallow grave.

But Rome wasn't always marred by such darkness. John Paul II and Pope Francis, with their charisma and focus on embracing marginalized communities, have brought the church closer to its teachings. John Paul II apologized for the horrors of residential schools, promoted social justice, and permitted Communion for divorced couples and blessings for same-sex unions. Pope Francis, by cracking open the faith to gays, has shown a willingness to move the church forward.

Despite being steeped in ancient customs and traditions, the cardinals embarking on the papal election process this week have spent their days in casual meetings, getting to know one another. The diverse group of 133 cardinals, 40% of whom were appointed during Pope Francis' reign, will determine the successor to Pope Francis. However, it's important to remember that whoever enters the conclave as the pope leaves as a cardinal, making predictions a treacherous game.

Conclave, with its long history of machinations and intrigue, has never failed to deliver a few surprises. Those placing their bets on the contenders for the job of leading the world's 1.4 billion Catholics may find themselves caught off guard yet again, but one thing is certain – prayers will be needed in abundance.

In the Vatican, the 21st century's technological advancements contrast starkly with the digital blackout during the papal election process.
The cardinals, leaving their cellphones behind, enter a solitary assembly under Michelangelo's Last Judgment to avoid eavesdroppers and hackers.
The Sistine Chapel is transformed into a hermetically sealed zone, with measures in place to foil drones, lasers, and artificial intelligence.
Smart devices like Bluetooth devices and smartwatches are detected and their wireless connections nullified to maintain secrecy.
The Vatican library houses the servers, ensuring the internal computer system is disconnected from the internet for safety.
Emergency communication is facilitated through an encrypted radio network, with cybersecurity outsourced to British and Israeli specialists.
The cardinals, princes of the church, are anticipated to keep mum, with any leaks resulting in excommunication.
Despite the tumultuous history of papal politics, the diverse group of cardinals will determine the successor to Pope Francis, endeavoring to move the church forward, while abiding by ancient customs and traditions.