Smokin' Down the Church: The Nitty-Gritty of the Papal Election in the Vatican
Vatican's Papal Election Process: An Inside Look at Choosing a New Pope - Vatican's Selection of the New Pope
pen by Frank O'Brien and Bettina McAllister | + - 4 Min Read
A New Pope Arises
After the demise or resignation of a Pope, the sacred process kicks off, led by diligently regulated protocols. The system in place today has roots in John Paul II's era, with minor modifications courtesy of Benedict XVI.
Gathering the Catholic Elite
As of now, 252 cardinals reign, with those above 80 taking an early retirement from voting eligibility. Come the vacant throne, only under-80 cardinals are allowed to cast their ballots. You, old timer, may have already hung up your voting boots—there's no place for you in this dance. In the current conclave, we've got 136 active participants.
General Congregation Fantasia
Every day, eligible cardinals must meet to manage Vatican affairs and iron out any wrinkles in the upcoming election. These meetings are not only about business; they also serve as social gatherings, allowing for unity, ink-stained chats, and fostering opinions. All involved swear an oath of inviolable silence.
A solemn mass is held over old Pete's tomb, calling on the virtuous spirits to bestow divine assistance for the impending election.
The Beginning of the Show
Following ancient tradition, the papal election is set to commence within 15 days, but if every contender has already shown up, someone's got an early pass to the Sistine Chapel.
As the "electors" mosey in, they sing a hymn to invoke the Holy Spirit—don't forget that bit. In the Sistine Chapel, the eligible cardinals then solemnly swear, grab their quills, and prepare to leave reality as we know it. "Clear the stage," the master of ceremonies bellows; "extra omnes."
Secret Ballots, Holy Fervor
On day one, an afternoon vote is common, the cardinals then casting their votes through stealthy handwriting on prepared ballots[5]. The ballots are folded, tucked away, and deposited into urns. You could vote for anyone, just make sure they're Catholic, of the sound mind, and share our faith.
A successfully elected candidate must secure two-thirds of the votes. If no candidate emerges victorious, the ballots are burned, and black smoke billows from the Sistine Chapel, broadcasting the epitome of frustration to the unfortunate souls outside.
If 34 unsuccessful votes are reached, it's time for a raincheck. Phew! Time for a moment of clarity and reflection to settle the inner turmoil. If more votes are needed, we're back to square one.
The New Pope: A Rose by Any Other Name
Acceptance of the office is a given for the freshly elected candidate. After accepting, he may select his future sobriquet.
If the new Pope indeed occupies the position legitimately, white smoke effuses from the Sistine Chapel chimney, and the bells of St. Peter ring out like freedom.
Dress 'er Up!
Robes of three sizes rest in the "tear room", a Sistine Chapel side room. If he's not even bishop material, he's instantly baptized, confirmed, and consecrated on the spot.
The Big Homage
Decked in his new attire, the new Pope settles onto his throne. The present cardinals congratulate their reigning monarch and pledge allegiance and obedience.
A Public Debut
After a short speech, the new Pope addresses his masses on St. Peter's Square, offering the first universal blessing, "Urbi et Orbi", to both the city of Rome and the world.
- As the cardinals gather, their long-awaited dance of voting unfolds, led by the sacred procedures surrounding the papal election, a tradition deeply rooted in the Vatican's history.
- If the new Pope is elected with two-thirds of the votes, white smoke billows from the Sistine Chapel chimney, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's guidance in the cardinals' decision, and the world cannot help but notice the papal congratulations and politics that follow.
- The newly elected Pope, once clothed in the robes from the tear room, is then greeted with an outpouring of congratulations from cardinals, marking the beginning of his papacy.
- As the Pope steps onto his throne, he deliver's his first speech to the masses, assuming his role as spiritual leader, guided by the chair of Peter in Rome, elevating general-news headlines and filling the world with excitement for the future under his papal rule.
