How the Papal Conclave Elects a New Pope

The Conclave Process

• 🗓️ The conclave to elect the successor to Pope Francis begins on May 7th, with the first vote expected around 1:00 PM New York time.
• 💨 A specially installed chimney in the Sistine Chapel will emit black smoke for no pope elected and white smoke when a new pope is chosen.
• 🗳️ Ballots are burned after each vote to maintain secrecy.

Voting Procedures and Participants

• ✝️ A total of 133 cardinals will participate in the election, as two cardinals are too ill to attend.
• 💯 The first man to reach 89 votes will be elected the new pope.
• 📜 While a church document limits voting to 120 cardinals, Pope Francis intended for all 135 eligible cardinals to vote; the final number is 133 due to illness.

The Movie 'Conclave' and its Influence

• 🎬 The Oscar-nominated film "Conclave" has reportedly boosted interest in the papal election process.
• 🎭 While the movie explains the mechanics of the conclave, some cardinals feel it downplays the spiritual and prayerful dimensions.
• 💬 Cardinal Dolan noted that despite dramatic portrayals in the film, the gathering is collegial and respectful, though he acknowledged some "backstabbing" might occur.

Historical Election Trends

• ⏳ Historically, papal elections have varied in length. The average conclave since 1903 has taken seven rounds of voting over three days.
• ✨ The election is seen as a moment of potential, hope, and a fresh start for the Catholic Church, regardless of who is chosen.