Rolling the Dice for the Holy Father: Deep Dive into the Vatican's Papal Election Process
- by Frank Ochmann
- and Bettina Müller
- 4 Min
A Vacant Throne of Saint Peter
Vatican's Inner Circles: Insight into the Procedure of the Papal Election - Vatican elects new Pope through traditional process
A Pope's tenure ends upon death or resignation, kicking off a meticulously choreographed series of events for a new one to take the reins. This current electoral process dates back to John Paul II and underwent minor modifications under Benedict XVI.
A Roman Gathering
The present roster, inclusive of those over 80, counts 252 cardinals. Candidates under the age of 80 on the eve of the sede vacante are the only ones who can cast their votes. In the upcoming conclave, about 136 electors are poised to participate.
A Daily Reunion
At the mandatory meetings (for eligible voters), the Vatican's administration carries on, and preparations for the election unfold. These sessions also function as opportunities for bonding, forming opinions, and swearing to secrecy.
A solemn mass over the tomb of Peter seeks divine guidance for the approaching vote.
Beginning the Conclave
Under normal circumstances, 15 full days, up to 20, should pass before the election kicks off. If all attendees are in place, an earlier date is possible.
The participating "electors" enter the conclave, singing a hymn to call upon the "Holy Spirit." Inside the Sistine Chapel, the cardinals recite an oath. Then, they are sealed off. "Extra omnes," the master of ceremonies announces, "everyone out."
Voting Systems
On the first day of the conclave, normally a vote occurs in the afternoon. Subsequent days feature two votes in the morning and two in the afternoon.
The cardinals vote by hand, writing their picks in disguised handwriting on pre-prepared slips of paper. These are folded twice and placed in an urn. Any unmarried male Catholic who is of sound mind and shares the faith of the Church can secure the position.
To become the new Pope, a candidate requires at least two-thirds of the votes.
If no consensus emerges after the count, the ballots are burned. Black smoke rising from the Sistine symbolizes an unsuccessful election.
After 34 unsuccessful votes, a run-off vote decides the contest.
The Road to White Smoke
The elected contender is asked if he accepts the office. If he agrees, he then decides his future name.
If the new Pope is legitimately seated, white smoke and the pealing of St. Peter's bells signify his arrival.
The Regalia
In the "tear room," a sideroom of the Sistine Chapel, the Pope is dressed. Clothes in three sizes are prepared. If he is not yet a bishop, he will be consecrated immediately.
Loyalty and Praise
After the dressing ceremony, the new Pope takes his throne. All gathered cardinals congratulate the Pontiff and pledge allegiance and obedience.
The Pope's Public Appearance
Following a brief speech to the assembly in St. Peter's Square, the new Pope grants his "Urbi et Orbi" blessing to Rome and the world.
- Conclave
- Pope
- Vatican
- Throne of Saint Peter
- Rome
On the Matter:
- Cardinal eligibility: Cardinals under 80 years old and of sound mind are eligible to vote in the conclave[4].
- Cardinal number: Around 133-135 cardinal electors are poised to participate in the upcoming conclave[1].
- Voting requirements: A two-thirds majority plus one vote is required for a candidate to be elected Pope[2][3].
- Voting process: Cardinals swear an oath of secrecy before casting their ballots, disguising their handwriting and depositing the ballots in a chalice-urn at the altar[1].
- Voting frequency: There is usually one vote on the first day, then two in the morning and two in the afternoon on subsequent days[2].
- Smoke signals: After each set of ballots is counted, they are burned. Black smoke signals no consensus, while white smoke indicates the election of a new Pope[2][3].
- The Vatican's papal election process kicks off when the Pope's tenure ends due to death or resignation.
- Cardinals under 80 years old and of sound mind are eligible to vote in the conclave.
- In the upcoming conclave, around 133-135 cardinal electors are poised to participate.
- A two-thirds majority plus one vote is required for a candidate to be elected Pope.
