- On 08/18/2022
- In curiosity
- Tags: Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums
How is a new Pope chosen?
The centuries-old process of choosing a new head of the Catholic Church is a lengthy and extremely secretive one that has not changed much. Though little is known of the day-to-day conversations between voting cardinals, the public does receive a general idea of the process.
Cardinals gather from around the world in Vatican City, with the under 60-year-old cardinals eligible to vote. During this period of voting, the Cardinals act as Head of the Church, and all reside within the Vatican City for the duration of the election process. There is no contact allowed with the outside world, save for medical emergencies. The process is known as a Conclave, which directly translates that they are locked up “with a key”.
Voting takes place within the Sistine Chapel four times a day and can continue for days, weeks or months depending on how long it takes to appoint a new Pope. The Pope is finally chosen by a two-thirds majority. When a vote is unsuccessful, as most of the time it is, the voting ballots will be burnt, showcasing the famous black smoke from the chimney for all to see in the Vatican State and Rome. Once a Pope is officially chosen, the smoke will be white, signaling that the Catholic Church has a new leader.
Afterward, the recently elected Pope will choose a new name, and present themselves to the world. It is a fascinating and highly secretive process that has continued for hundreds of years, and hopefully, one everyone can experience in their lifetime!
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