How a New Pope Is Chosen
Following the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday at age 88, the Roman Catholic Church has entered a pivotal period — the selection of its next leader. The Vatican has now activated the deeply traditional process used for centuries to appoint a new pope.
Pope Francis, formerly Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina, was elected in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation. The process that follows his death mirrors that transition, led by the global assembly of cardinals.
Transition of Church Leadership
In the event of a papal vacancy, authority over the Church shifts to the College of Cardinals, a group of high-ranking clergy appointed by popes from around the world. They are recognized by their red robes, a symbol of their commitment to the Church.
These cardinals gather in Rome for general congregations — preparatory meetings where they coordinate funeral arrangements, suspend decisions reserved for the pope, and plan for the upcoming election.
Who Votes for the Pope?
Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, currently numbering around 120. These cardinal electors are solely responsible for choosing the next pope in a process called the conclave.
Inside the Conclave
The conclave is a closed-door election held in the Sistine Chapel. Once inside, the cardinals take a vow of secrecy and the chapel doors are locked. The election itself involves a series of secret ballots — up to four per day — until one candidate receives a two-thirds majority.
Each ballot is cast solemnly, with the electors walking individually to deposit their votes beneath Michelangelo’s Last Judgment. Three designated cardinals tally the votes after each round.
If no winner emerges, the ballots are burned with a chemical that emits black smoke, signaling to the public that the Church remains without a pope.
Announcing a New Pontiff
When a candidate receives the required majority and accepts the role, he selects a papal name and dons white vestments. White smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel, informing the world that a new pope has been chosen.
The senior cardinal deacon — currently French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti — then appears on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to declare, “Habemus Papam” (Latin for “We have a pope”). Moments later, the new pope steps forward to deliver his first blessing to the faithful gathered in the square and to Catholics around the world.
In other news:Pope Francis Dies at 88, Ending a Decade of Reform and Controversy
How a New Pope Is Chosen