10 essential rituals of Conclave for electing a new Pope

10 things to know today about electing a new Pope, As the eyes of the world once again turn toward the Vatican, the question of who will become the next spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics looms large. The process of electing a new pope is steeped in tradition, secrecy, and sacred ritual. Whether you’re a devout Catholic or a curious observer, here are 10 essential facts to help you understand how a new pope is chosen.

The Pope Must Die or Resign First

Before a new pope can be elected, the seat must be vacant. This occurs either through the death of the reigning pope or, as in the historic case of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013, through voluntary resignation—a rare act that hadn’t occurred in nearly 600 years.
The Papal Conclave Is Held in the Sistine Chapel

The conclave—the sacred gathering where the next pope is elected—takes place in the Sistine Chapel. Cardinals are sealed off (“conclave” comes from the Latin cum clave, meaning “with a key”) from the outside world until a decision is reached. The selection of a new pope to succeed Pope Francis has begun today.
Only Cardinals Under Age 80 Can Vote

While all cardinals may attend the preliminary gatherings known as “General Congregations,” only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the conclave. As of now, 133 cardinals are eligible to elect the successor to Pope Francis.
A Two-Thirds Majority Is Required

A cardinal must receive a two-thirds supermajority to be elected pope. This rule ensures consensus and unity within the Church. Ballots are handwritten, and voting is conducted under strict secrecy.
Voting Occurs Twice Daily

Each day of the conclave includes two rounds of voting in the morning and two in the afternoon, except on the first day. If no pope is chosen after several ballots, the cardinals may discuss procedural adjustments—but consensus is still required.
Smoke Signals Announce the Result

After each round of voting, the ballots are burned. Black smoke (fumata nera) signals that no decision has been made. White smoke (fumata bianca) means a new pope has been chosen. In recent years, chemicals have been added to ensure the smoke colour is clearly visible.
The Chosen Cardinal Must Accept the Role

Even after election, the chosen cardinal must formally accept by saying, “Accepto.” He is then asked what name he will take as pope—a symbolic act marking the beginning of his papacy.
The New Pope Is Revealed with ‘Habemus Papam’

Once the new pope accepts the role, the senior cardinal deacon announces the decision from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica with the traditional Latin phrase: “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”), followed by the new pope’s chosen name.
Anyone Can Be Elected—In Theory

While Church law allows any baptized Catholic male to be elected pope, in modern times only cardinals have been chosen. If a non-cardinal were elected, he would first need to be ordained a bishop.
It’s a Spiritual Decision, Not Just Political

Though influenced by church politics, geography, and theology, the conclave is ultimately a spiritual process. Cardinals are expected to vote with a sense of sacred duty, guided by prayer and divine inspiration. The role of pope is not merely administrative—it is pastoral, global, and deeply spiritual.

The election of a new pope is one of the most closely watched—and least understood—events in the modern world. Beneath the ritual and mystery lies a profound decision that shapes the spiritual and geopolitical direction of the Catholic Church for generations.