A new chapter in the Catholic Church’s history is underway as approximately 130 cardinals from across the globe convene in the Sistine Chapel to elect a successor to Pope Francis, who recently passed on.

Gathered beneath Michelangelo’s iconic The Last Judgment fresco, the cardinals began casting their first ballots in what many observers are calling one of the most unpredictable conclaves in modern times. With representation from every continent, the College of Cardinals faces the complex task of choosing a spiritual leader to guide the Church’s 1.3 billion followers through a rapidly changing global landscape.

Time-Honored Ritual, Global Focus

The process follows strict centuries-old protocols. Voting takes place twice daily once in the morning and once in the afternoon. After each round, smoke rises from the chimney installed atop the Sistine Chapel: black smoke signals an inconclusive vote; white smoke means a new pope has been chosen.

As anticipation builds, pilgrims and tourists are gathering in St. Peter’s Square, eyes fixed on the chimney for the signal that will announce the Church’s next leader.

Possible Break from Tradition

While papal conclaves are always shrouded in secrecy, this year’s is especially notable for its size and diversity. It is the largest in history, with over 130 voting members, and speculation is mounting that the next pope could hail from outside Europe a reflection of the Church’s growing presence in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Should no decision be reached within the first three days, Church law mandates a pause for prayer and reflection, allowing the cardinals time to reassess and discern before continuing.

What’s Next?

The world now watches and waits as the smoke signals mark the progress of each ballot. If consensus is reached, the newly elected pope will appear on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, greeted with the traditional announcement: “Habemus Papam” “We have a Pope.”

Until then, all eyes remain on the Vatican as history unfolds.