How a New Pope Is Chosen: The Conclave

Now that Pope Francis has been laid to rest, the Church turns its gaze toward the empty throne of St. Peter. The most sacred election on Earth is about to begin: the Conclave.

This ancient process gathers the world’s cardinals under oath and lock — cum clave, “with a key” — inside the Sistine Chapel. Beneath Michelangelo’s great fresco, they pray, reflect, and cast their votes in secrecy.

Only cardinals under 80 may vote. All swear a solemn oath to be guided not by politics or pressure — but by the Holy Spirit. There are no speeches, no campaigns. Just silence, discernment, and sacred duty.

Inside the Chapel, ballots are cast and counted, round after round, until one man receives the required two-thirds majority.

In that moment, if he accepts, the world changes.

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