Voting to elect a new pope will officially begin Thursday morning at the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, following the death of Pope Francis who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88.
More than 130 cardinal-electors from across the world have now entered the Conclave after holding their final General Congregation on Tuesday, where they reflected on the qualities needed in the next pontiff.
The election will begin with the Mass Pro Eligendo Pontifice — a special mass for electing a new pope — before the cardinals proceed to the Sistine Chapel for the first round of voting.
According to a statement by the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, the cardinals will depart Santa Marta residence by 7:45 a.m. on Thursday and arrive at the Apostolic Palace by 8:15 a.m. for Mass and morning prayers in the Pauline Chapel. Voting will commence afterward in the Sistine Chapel.
The process allows for four votes daily — two in the morning and two in the afternoon — until a new pope is elected by a two-thirds majority. With 133 eligible voters, at least 89 votes are required for a valid election.
If no winner emerges after three days, the cardinals will pause for prayers and informal talks. After 21 inconclusive votes, only the top two candidates will remain in contention, though they will not be allowed to vote. However, the two-thirds majority remains compulsory.
As per tradition, black smoke from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney signals a failed vote, while white smoke confirms the election of a new pope.
Of the 135 eligible cardinal-electors, 18 are from Africa, including Nigeria, while Europe holds the highest number with 53. Asia follows with 23, then Africa, South America (17), North America (16), and Oceania and Central America (four each).
Notably, 108 of the current electors were appointed by Pope Francis, 22 by Pope Benedict XVI, and five by Pope John Paul II.
During Tuesday’s final congregation, the cardinals emphasized the need for a pope who will be a shepherd, a reformer, and a bridge-builder. Discussions also touched on reforms started by Pope Francis — including the fight against sexual abuse, financial transparency, peacebuilding, and environmental care.
Other key issues raised include missionary formation, religious freedom, Canon Law reform, and strengthening the role of cardinals in global Church affairs.
Meanwhile, the Vatican has confirmed that the Ring of the Fisherman — a papal symbol — has been voided following Pope Francis’ death, and all officials involved in the Conclave have taken the oath of secrecy.
The Catholic Church has called on the global faithful to offer prayers for divine guidance as the election process begins.
