On Wednesday, 133 cardinals commenced the time-honoured rituals to elect a new pope, following the passing of Pope Francis. The event took place in the Vatican, marking the largest and most geographically diverse conclave in the Catholic Church’s 2,000-year history. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re led the ceremonial Mass, urging the cardinals to set aside personal interests in favour of unity, emphasizing the need for a leader capable of inspiring the global Catholic community.
The cardinals will remain isolated from the external world, having surrendered their phones and with measures in place to block communications, as they deliberate on a successor to lead the 1.4 billion-strong church. Nearly 80% of the electors were appointed by Francis himself, many chosen from countries previously without a cardinal, enhancing the conclave’s diversity and the uncertainty surrounding the election.
Prior to entering the Sistine Chapel for the secret voting process, the cardinals participated in a Mass attended by Vatican officials and public pilgrims, enduring light rain outside as they watched on giant screens. Cardinal Re prayed for the wisdom needed to elect a worthy new leader while the cardinals processed down the basilica aisle adorned in their red vestments.
As the voting begins this afternoon (local time), cardinals are expected to engage in rigorous discussions, with the potential for multiple rounds before a candidate garners the necessary two-thirds majority. Historical voting patterns suggest it could take several ballots to reach a resolution; many past conclaves have seen anywhere from three to 14 ballots before a new pope was elected.
Outside the conclave, varying groups engaged in significant lobbying, advocating for a leader who reflects the needs and desires of the global Catholic community, including calls for greater representation of women and youth. There are significant challenges ahead for the new pope, including continuing Francis’ progressive efforts in areas such as environmentalism and inclusivity, amid controversies like clergy abuse scandals.
Initial front-runners for the papacy include Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Francis’ former secretary of state; Cardinal Luis Tagle from the Philippines, a strong candidate for the first Asian pope; and Cardinal Peter Erdo from Hungary, representing a more conservative faction within the church. The conclave is set to pave the way for the next chapter in the Catholic Church’s leadership, amidst much anticipation from the global congregation.