The eyes of the Catholic world are on Rome today as the papal conclave officially begins, with over 100 cardinals gathering in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope following the death of Pope Francis.
Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday due to a stroke and heart failure, will be succeeded by a new leader chosen from among the College of Cardinals—all under the age of 80 and representing various nations and cultures across the globe. The elected pontiff will take the helm of the 1.4-billion-member Roman Catholic Church at a critical time for both faith and global leadership.
Cardinals participating in the centuries-old tradition will remain secluded in the Sistine Chapel until a new pope is chosen. The process involves several rounds of secret balloting, with ballots burned after each vote. A special chemical is added to the burning papers to produce either black smoke—signifying no decision—or white smoke to signal that a new pope has been elected.
Vatican expert Philip Pullella explained: “Once the cardinals reach a decision and the chosen candidate accepts, he becomes the successor of Saint Peter. Until then, black smoke will rise from the chimney above the chapel.”
As anticipation builds, Catholic leaders and faithful around the world are reflecting on the qualities needed in the next pontiff. Father Hugh O’Connor, Secretary General of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference, shared the Church’s hopes: “We are looking for someone who demonstrates holiness and a deep spiritual connection to God—not perfection, but compassion, leadership, and courage. A pope who can speak truth to power and uplift the voiceless.”
The duration of the conclave remains uncertain, but once the white smoke rises, the world will meet a new spiritual leader tasked with guiding the Church into its next chapter.