Today, 133 cardinals from around the world locked themselves into the Sistine Chapel. Why? To pick the next Pope.
This secretive meeting—known as a conclave—comes after the death of Pope Francis on April 21. And no, they’re not allowed to bring their phones.
The word conclave comes from the Latin cum clave, which means “with a key.” As in, they’re literally locked in until a decision is made. The tradition began in 1274 after a papal election dragged on for nearly three years. Talk about deadlines.
The voting? It’s old school. Handwritten ballots, burned in a special stove. If the smoke is black, no Pope. If it’s white—ding ding—we have a winner.
The process can take a day or stretch into weeks. But this time, many expect a decision in under three days. Cardinals Pietro Parolin of Italy and Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines are top contenders, but in conclaves, surprises happen.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle
This is the most geographically diverse conclave ever. Expect some intense debates, lots of incense, and maybe even a miracle or two.
📿 As always, the world waits for the smoke… and the name.
