The Roman Catholic conclave is the solemn and secretive process by which a new pope is elected. The 2025 conclave, commencing on May 7, follows the death of Pope Francis on April 21 and is notable for being the largest and most globally diverse in Church history.
What Is a Papal Conclave?
The term conclave comes from the Latin cum clave, meaning “with a key,” reflecting the tradition of locking the cardinal electors away from external influence during the election. This practice dates back to the 13th century and was formalized to ensure a swift and untainted selection of the pope. The conclave is held in the Sistine Chapel, where the cardinals are secluded until a new pope is chosen.
The 2025 Conclave: Key Facts
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Number of Electors: 133 cardinals under the age of 80 are participating, surpassing the nominal limit of 120 set in 1975.
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Global Representation: Cardinals hail from 71 countries, with significant representation from Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa.
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Voting Process: Cardinals cast secret ballots up to four times daily. A two-thirds majority (89 votes) is required to elect a new pope.
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Secrecy Measures: Electors swear an oath of secrecy and surrender electronic devices. The Sistine Chapel is swept for surveillance devices to maintain confidentiality.
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Smoke Signals: After each voting round, ballots are burned. Black smoke indicates no decision; white smoke, accompanied by bell chimes, announces a successful election.
Historical Context
The conclave tradition began in 1274, following a nearly three-year papal vacancy that led to the implementation of strict election protocols. Over the centuries, conclaves have evolved, but the core principles of seclusion and secrecy remain.
Announcement of the New Pope
Once a candidate accepts the election, he chooses a papal name and dons the white cassock in the "Room of Tears." The Senior Cardinal Deacon then announces "Habemus Papam" ("We have a pope") from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, introducing the new pontiff to the world.
