Following the death of a pope, the Catholic Church elects a successor through the “papal conclave,” an age-old procedure.

Since at least 1276, this conclave has involved the College of Cardinals, comprised of the Church’s leading bishops from around the world. While over 240 cardinals exist, only those under 80 can vote, and the number of electors is capped at 120.

Upon a pope’s death, most Vatican office prefects lose their positions, but a few, such as the foreign minister and the master of liturgical ceremonies (who is crucial for organizing the conclave), remain.

The conclave is held in the Sistine Chapel, and cardinals are strictly isolated to prevent external influence. The term “conclave” itself comes from the Latin “con clavis,” meaning “with key,” highlighting the electors’ locked-in status during deliberations.

A swift selection is prioritized to minimize the Church’s time without a leader. Voting begins on the first day and continues at least twice daily (morning and evening) until a decision is reached.

Modern practice dictates that cardinals choose a pope from among themselves, although this wasn’t always the case.

Conclaves usually commence with a special Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, where cardinals seek guidance from the Holy Spirit.

Cardinals cast secret ballots, writing their choice and then placing it in a chalice before Michelangelo’s “Last Judgment” fresco, a reminder of their solemn duty.

A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope. While more than two-thirds of current cardinal electors were appointed by previous popes, they represent diverse viewpoints and global origins.

After each vote, ballots are burned, and the resulting smoke signals the outcome. Black smoke signifies no consensus, while white smoke indicates a pope has been chosen.

Upon receiving a two-thirds majority, the Dean of the College of Cardinals asks the elected cardinal if he accepts the position. If he agrees, he chooses his papal name. Cardinal Jose Mario Bergoglio, for instance, chose “Pope Francis,” being the first to use that name.

Following the white smoke signal, the senior cardinal announces “Habemus papam!” (“We have a pope!”) and the new pope appears to give his first blessing to Rome and the world.