Today marked the commencement of the papal conclave, where a record 133 cardinals from around the globe will deliberate to choose a successor to Pope Francis, with no clear timeline for the decision-making process.
A New Chapter in the Vatican: The Pope Conclave Begins
A New Chapter in the Vatican: The Pope Conclave Begins
As cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel, the world holds its breath awaiting the selection of the next pontiff.
In a historic moment under the divine artistry of Michelangelo, the cardinals have entered the Vatican's Sistine Chapel to engage in a voting process integral to the Catholic Church's future leadership. With 133 representatives from around 70 countries, the environment is laden with anticipation and uncertainty.
According to Jason Horowitz, our Rome correspondent, "Once they enter, the outside world will be in the dark." The traditional smoke signals, with black denoting inconclusive votes, serve as the only communication from the conclave. The inaugural vote is typically a test of candidates, but if black smoke persists into the second day, it may indicate deeper divisions among the cardinals.
The Vatican's hierarchy has shifted since the papacy of Francis began in 2013, making this conclave particularly unpredictable. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the church’s second-in-command, is viewed as a serious contender who could symbolize continuity within the Church. Meanwhile, Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle of the Philippines is considered a leading candidate. If elected, he would make history as the first pope from Southeast Asia. These men, alongside others, represent a diverse pool of potential leaders who could steer the Catholic Church into an evolving future.
According to Jason Horowitz, our Rome correspondent, "Once they enter, the outside world will be in the dark." The traditional smoke signals, with black denoting inconclusive votes, serve as the only communication from the conclave. The inaugural vote is typically a test of candidates, but if black smoke persists into the second day, it may indicate deeper divisions among the cardinals.
The Vatican's hierarchy has shifted since the papacy of Francis began in 2013, making this conclave particularly unpredictable. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the church’s second-in-command, is viewed as a serious contender who could symbolize continuity within the Church. Meanwhile, Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle of the Philippines is considered a leading candidate. If elected, he would make history as the first pope from Southeast Asia. These men, alongside others, represent a diverse pool of potential leaders who could steer the Catholic Church into an evolving future.
