By rikififi90 
The death of Pope Francis, aged 88, on April 21, 2025, marked the start of a historic moment for the Catholic Church, which now prepares to elect its new leader through the conclave, a centuries-old process known as “locked with a key.” Held in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, the conclave will gather 135 cardinals under 80 years old, including seven Brazilians, in an environment of complete isolation and secrecy. The process, which may last days or even weeks, involves secret ballots, prayer breaks, and the burning of ballots, with white smoke signaling the choice of the new pontiff. The election, steeped in rituals and traditions, will determine Francis’ successor, whose leadership was marked by messages of simplicity and inclusion. As the world awaits the “Habemus Papam” announcement in St. Peter’s Square, the conclave underscores the Catholic Church’s relevance in a global landscape of social and political change.
Among the Brazilian cardinals eligible to vote, notable figures include Leonardo Ulrich Steiner, archbishop of Manaus, and Paulo Cezar Costa, archbishop of Brasília, representing a vibrant Church in one of the world’s largest Catholic nations. Brazil, with about 123 million Catholics, holds significant weight in the ecclesial landscape, and its cardinals’ participation reflects this influence. The conclave, expected to begin in the days following Francis’ death, will be an event of great symbolism, with cardinals cut off from the outside world, without access to phones, newspapers, or any form of communication.
The process of choosing the pope is governed by strict rules, established over centuries, aimed at ensuring the election’s independence and sanctity. The requirement of a two-thirds majority, the burning of ballots after each vote, and the oath of absolute secrecy are elements that make the conclave unique. The new pope is expected to face challenges such as secularization, geopolitical tensions, and internal Church issues, including the need for reforms and dialogue with other religions.
What defines the conclave
The conclave is a highly structured process with characteristics that ensure its solemnity and secrecy. Below are the key points:
- Total isolation: Cardinals stay in the “Conclave zone,” with no contact with the outside world.
- Secret voting: Ballots are burned after counting, with smoke indicating progress.
- Two-thirds majority: Required to elect the pope, with up to four daily votes.
- Oath of secrecy: All participants vow not to disclose details of the process.
Tradition and symbolism of the conclave
The term “conclave,” derived from the Latin “cum clavis” (locked with a key), reflects the essence of a process that isolates cardinals in a protected environment free from external influences. Held in the Sistine Chapel, under Michelangelo’s frescoes, the conclave blends spirituality and ritual. Cardinals, dressed in their red vestments, place ballots in an urn after reflection and prayer, in an act symbolizing the search for divine will. Black smoke, produced by burning ballots with a chemical, indicates no election, while white smoke announces the new pope’s selection.
The conclave tradition dates back to the 13th century, when papal elections were formalized to avoid disputes and delays. In 1271, after nearly three years without a pontiff, the residents of Viterbo locked the cardinals in a room until they chose a pope, inspiring the current format. Today, the process is more organized but retains its aura of mystery, with cardinals housed in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, a residence within the Vatican, during the election period.
The oath of secrecy, taken before voting begins, reinforces confidentiality. Any violation could result in excommunication, underscoring the process’s gravity. Additionally, electronic sweeps of the Sistine Chapel prevent recording devices, ensuring discussions remain private.
Brazilian cardinals in the conclave
Seven Brazilian cardinals, all under 80, participate in the 2025 conclave, representing the diversity and influence of the Church in Brazil. Leonardo Ulrich Steiner, 74, archbishop of Manaus, is known for his work with indigenous communities and environmental issues. Paulo Cezar Costa, 57, archbishop of Brasília, stands out as a young and dynamic leader. Orani Tempesta, 74, archbishop of Rio de Janeiro, gained prominence during the 2013 World Youth Day. Odilo Scherer, 75, archbishop of São Paulo, was once considered a potential papal candidate in 2013.
Jaime Spengler, 64, president of the Brazilian Bishops’ Conference (CNBB) and archbishop of Porto Alegre, is recognized for his pastoral approach. Sérgio da Rocha, 65, archbishop of Salvador and Primate of Brazil, brings experience in social issues. João Braz de Aviz, 77, archbishop emeritus of Brasília, serves in the Roman Curia, giving him insight into the Vatican’s inner workings. Their presence strengthens Brazil’s role in the global Church, particularly on issues like social justice and the environment.
While the chances of a Brazilian pope are slim, given the predominance of European cardinals and the tradition of selecting pontiffs from other regions, Brazil’s participation is significant. Brazil, with the world’s largest Catholic population, holds symbolic weight, and its cardinals may influence debates about the Church’s future.
Voting rules and stages
The conclave follows detailed regulations, codified in the apostolic constitution “Universi Dominici Gregis” of 1996, with adjustments by later popes. Voting takes place in the Sistine Chapel, with up to four sessions daily—two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Each cardinal writes their candidate’s name on a ballot, which is placed in an urn. After counting, the ballots are burned, producing the smoke visible from the chapel’s chimney.
If no candidate achieves a two-thirds majority after three days, the conclave pauses for 24 hours for prayer and reflection. Another pause may occur after seven more inconclusive votes. If 34 votes fail to produce a pope, the two top candidates from the last round enter a “runoff,” still requiring a two-thirds majority. This process, though rare, ensures eventual consensus.
Once a cardinal is elected, he is asked if he accepts the role. If he agrees, he chooses his papal name, often inspired by predecessors or historical figures. The new pope is then taken to the “Room of Tears,” where he dons papal vestments, before being presented to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The role of smoke in the conclave
Smoke is one of the conclave’s most iconic elements, serving as the primary means of communication with the outside world. After each vote, ballots are burned with chemicals that determine the smoke’s color. Black smoke indicates no pope has been elected, while white smoke signals the new pontiff’s selection. The Sistine Chapel’s chimney, visible in St. Peter’s Square, becomes the focus of attention for faithful and global media.
Historically, distinguishing between black and white smoke was not always clear, with instances of confusion due to grayish hues. In modern conclaves, specific chemicals, such as potassium chlorate and anthracene, ensure distinct colors. White smoke is accompanied by the ringing of St. Peter’s Basilica’s bells, confirming the election.
The symbolism of smoke transcends its practical function, representing the transition from uncertainty to hope. For the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the wait for white smoke is a moment of emotion and anticipation, culminating in the new pope’s announcement.
Challenges for the new pope
Francis’ successor will assume leadership of the Catholic Church at a time of global challenges. Secularization, particularly in Europe and North America, has reduced the number of faithful, while Catholicism’s growth in Africa and Asia presents new opportunities. Issues like women’s inclusion in leadership roles, interfaith dialogue, and addressing sexual abuse scandals continue to demand attention.
The Church also faces internal tensions between conservative and progressive factions. Francis, with his focus on simplicity and mercy, sought to balance these divisions, but the next pope will need to navigate debates on doctrine, morality, and governance. The climate crisis, a key theme in Francis’ pontificate, will also remain a focus, with the encyclical “Laudato Si’” as a reference.
In the global context, the pope will need to address geopolitical conflicts, such as tensions in the Middle East and political polarization in various nations. The ability to promote peace and dialogue will be essential in a world marked by inequality and intolerance.
Predicted conclave timeline
The process of electing the new pope follows an approximate schedule:
- April 2025: Following Francis’ death, the Vatican organizes the funeral and prepares the conclave.
- May 2025: Conclave begins, with cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel.
- May or June 2025: New pope announced, with the “Habemus Papam” proclamation.
- 2025-2026: First months of the new pontificate, with appointments and initial guidelines.
Brazil’s influence in the Catholic Church
Brazil, with its vast Catholic population, plays a crucial role in the global Church. The seven Brazilian cardinals in the conclave bring unique perspectives, shaped by issues like poverty, inequality, and Amazon preservation. Leaders like Leonardo Ulrich Steiner, who works with indigenous communities, and Jaime Spengler, CNBB president, advocate for a socially engaged Church, aligned with Francis’ legacy.
Brazil’s influence is also reflected in its religious culture, marked by events like the 2013 World Youth Day and devotion to Our Lady of Aparecida. While a Brazilian pope is unlikely, the country’s cardinals can shape discussions on the Church’s future, particularly on social justice and ecology.
Brazil’s participation in the conclave underscores the importance of Latin America, home to about 40% of the world’s Catholics. Francis’ election, the first Latin American pope in 2013, was a milestone, and the new conclave may reinforce this regional influence.
Announcing the new pope
The “Habemus Papam” moment is the conclave’s climax, when the new pope is presented to the world. From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the cardinal protodeacon proclaims the phrase in Latin, announcing the elected pope’s name and papal title. The crowd in St. Peter’s Square, which may gather tens of thousands, celebrates with applause and prayers.
The new pope delivers his first blessing, known as “Urbi et Orbi” (to the city and the world), marking the start of his pontificate. This event is broadcast globally, reaching millions of faithful and onlookers. The choice of papal name, often symbolic, may indicate the new pontiff’s priorities.
The transition to the new pontificate is swift, with the pope immediately assuming his duties. In the following days, he appoints collaborators, celebrates masses, and sets the general direction of his governance, signaling how he will lead the Church in the years ahead.
Global expectations for the conclave
The 2025 conclave draws worldwide attention, not only among Catholics but also from political leaders, scholars, and the media. The new pope’s selection could influence global debates on ethics, the environment, and human rights. Francis’ election, as an Argentine, brought a fresh perspective to the Church, and the next pontiff will need to maintain this dynamism.
The diversity of the 135 cardinals, hailing from every continent, reflects the Catholic Church’s universality. While Europe still dominates, with about 50% of cardinals, the growing presence of representatives from Africa, Asia, and Latin America suggests the next pope could come from a non-traditional region, such as Africa, where Catholicism is rapidly expanding.
Expectations include the selection of a leader combining charisma, pastoral vision, and administrative skill. The ability to engage youth, address internal crises, and promote unity will be critical to the new pontificate’s success.
The significance of the Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel, where the conclave takes place, is more than a voting venue—it is a symbol of Catholic faith. Its frescoes, including Michelangelo’s “Last Judgment,” create an atmosphere of spiritual reflection. Cardinals, surrounded by this art, are reminded of the responsibility of their choice, which will impact millions of faithful.
The chapel is prepared in advance, with chairs and urns set up for voting. Technical teams conduct sweeps to ensure no electronic devices are present, safeguarding secrecy. The conclave’s logistics, involving the coordination of 135 cardinals and dozens of staff, is a meticulously planned organizational feat by the Vatican.
The choice of the Sistine Chapel reinforces tradition’s continuity, linking the 2025 conclave to centuries of Church history. For cardinals, the setting is an invitation to introspection, while for the outside world, it is an icon of one of Christianity’s most significant events.
The death of Pope Francis, aged 88, on April 21, 2025, marked the start of a historic moment for the Catholic Church, which now prepares to elect its new leader through the conclave, a centuries-old process known as “locked with a key.” Held in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, the conclave will gather 135 cardinals under 80 years old, including seven Brazilians, in an environment of complete isolation and secrecy. The process, which may last days or even weeks, involves secret ballots, prayer breaks, and the burning of ballots, with white smoke signaling the choice of the new pontiff. The election, steeped in rituals and traditions, will determine Francis’ successor, whose leadership was marked by messages of simplicity and inclusion. As the world awaits the “Habemus Papam” announcement in St. Peter’s Square, the conclave underscores the Catholic Church’s relevance in a global landscape of social and political change.
Among the Brazilian cardinals eligible to vote, notable figures include Leonardo Ulrich Steiner, archbishop of Manaus, and Paulo Cezar Costa, archbishop of Brasília, representing a vibrant Church in one of the world’s largest Catholic nations. Brazil, with about 123 million Catholics, holds significant weight in the ecclesial landscape, and its cardinals’ participation reflects this influence. The conclave, expected to begin in the days following Francis’ death, will be an event of great symbolism, with cardinals cut off from the outside world, without access to phones, newspapers, or any form of communication.
The process of choosing the pope is governed by strict rules, established over centuries, aimed at ensuring the election’s independence and sanctity. The requirement of a two-thirds majority, the burning of ballots after each vote, and the oath of absolute secrecy are elements that make the conclave unique. The new pope is expected to face challenges such as secularization, geopolitical tensions, and internal Church issues, including the need for reforms and dialogue with other religions.
What defines the conclave
The conclave is a highly structured process with characteristics that ensure its solemnity and secrecy. Below are the key points:
- Total isolation: Cardinals stay in the “Conclave zone,” with no contact with the outside world.
- Secret voting: Ballots are burned after counting, with smoke indicating progress.
- Two-thirds majority: Required to elect the pope, with up to four daily votes.
- Oath of secrecy: All participants vow not to disclose details of the process.
Tradition and symbolism of the conclave
The term “conclave,” derived from the Latin “cum clavis” (locked with a key), reflects the essence of a process that isolates cardinals in a protected environment free from external influences. Held in the Sistine Chapel, under Michelangelo’s frescoes, the conclave blends spirituality and ritual. Cardinals, dressed in their red vestments, place ballots in an urn after reflection and prayer, in an act symbolizing the search for divine will. Black smoke, produced by burning ballots with a chemical, indicates no election, while white smoke announces the new pope’s selection.
The conclave tradition dates back to the 13th century, when papal elections were formalized to avoid disputes and delays. In 1271, after nearly three years without a pontiff, the residents of Viterbo locked the cardinals in a room until they chose a pope, inspiring the current format. Today, the process is more organized but retains its aura of mystery, with cardinals housed in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, a residence within the Vatican, during the election period.
The oath of secrecy, taken before voting begins, reinforces confidentiality. Any violation could result in excommunication, underscoring the process’s gravity. Additionally, electronic sweeps of the Sistine Chapel prevent recording devices, ensuring discussions remain private.
Brazilian cardinals in the conclave
Seven Brazilian cardinals, all under 80, participate in the 2025 conclave, representing the diversity and influence of the Church in Brazil. Leonardo Ulrich Steiner, 74, archbishop of Manaus, is known for his work with indigenous communities and environmental issues. Paulo Cezar Costa, 57, archbishop of Brasília, stands out as a young and dynamic leader. Orani Tempesta, 74, archbishop of Rio de Janeiro, gained prominence during the 2013 World Youth Day. Odilo Scherer, 75, archbishop of São Paulo, was once considered a potential papal candidate in 2013.
Jaime Spengler, 64, president of the Brazilian Bishops’ Conference (CNBB) and archbishop of Porto Alegre, is recognized for his pastoral approach. Sérgio da Rocha, 65, archbishop of Salvador and Primate of Brazil, brings experience in social issues. João Braz de Aviz, 77, archbishop emeritus of Brasília, serves in the Roman Curia, giving him insight into the Vatican’s inner workings. Their presence strengthens Brazil’s role in the global Church, particularly on issues like social justice and the environment.
While the chances of a Brazilian pope are slim, given the predominance of European cardinals and the tradition of selecting pontiffs from other regions, Brazil’s participation is significant. Brazil, with the world’s largest Catholic population, holds symbolic weight, and its cardinals may influence debates about the Church’s future.
Voting rules and stages
The conclave follows detailed regulations, codified in the apostolic constitution “Universi Dominici Gregis” of 1996, with adjustments by later popes. Voting takes place in the Sistine Chapel, with up to four sessions daily—two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Each cardinal writes their candidate’s name on a ballot, which is placed in an urn. After counting, the ballots are burned, producing the smoke visible from the chapel’s chimney.
If no candidate achieves a two-thirds majority after three days, the conclave pauses for 24 hours for prayer and reflection. Another pause may occur after seven more inconclusive votes. If 34 votes fail to produce a pope, the two top candidates from the last round enter a “runoff,” still requiring a two-thirds majority. This process, though rare, ensures eventual consensus.
Once a cardinal is elected, he is asked if he accepts the role. If he agrees, he chooses his papal name, often inspired by predecessors or historical figures. The new pope is then taken to the “Room of Tears,” where he dons papal vestments, before being presented to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The role of smoke in the conclave
Smoke is one of the conclave’s most iconic elements, serving as the primary means of communication with the outside world. After each vote, ballots are burned with chemicals that determine the smoke’s color. Black smoke indicates no pope has been elected, while white smoke signals the new pontiff’s selection. The Sistine Chapel’s chimney, visible in St. Peter’s Square, becomes the focus of attention for faithful and global media.
Historically, distinguishing between black and white smoke was not always clear, with instances of confusion due to grayish hues. In modern conclaves, specific chemicals, such as potassium chlorate and anthracene, ensure distinct colors. White smoke is accompanied by the ringing of St. Peter’s Basilica’s bells, confirming the election.
The symbolism of smoke transcends its practical function, representing the transition from uncertainty to hope. For the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the wait for white smoke is a moment of emotion and anticipation, culminating in the new pope’s announcement.
Challenges for the new pope
Francis’ successor will assume leadership of the Catholic Church at a time of global challenges. Secularization, particularly in Europe and North America, has reduced the number of faithful, while Catholicism’s growth in Africa and Asia presents new opportunities. Issues like women’s inclusion in leadership roles, interfaith dialogue, and addressing sexual abuse scandals continue to demand attention.
The Church also faces internal tensions between conservative and progressive factions. Francis, with his focus on simplicity and mercy, sought to balance these divisions, but the next pope will need to navigate debates on doctrine, morality, and governance. The climate crisis, a key theme in Francis’ pontificate, will also remain a focus, with the encyclical “Laudato Si’” as a reference.
In the global context, the pope will need to address geopolitical conflicts, such as tensions in the Middle East and political polarization in various nations. The ability to promote peace and dialogue will be essential in a world marked by inequality and intolerance.
Predicted conclave timeline
The process of electing the new pope follows an approximate schedule:
- April 2025: Following Francis’ death, the Vatican organizes the funeral and prepares the conclave.
- May 2025: Conclave begins, with cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel.
- May or June 2025: New pope announced, with the “Habemus Papam” proclamation.
- 2025-2026: First months of the new pontificate, with appointments and initial guidelines.
Brazil’s influence in the Catholic Church
Brazil, with its vast Catholic population, plays a crucial role in the global Church. The seven Brazilian cardinals in the conclave bring unique perspectives, shaped by issues like poverty, inequality, and Amazon preservation. Leaders like Leonardo Ulrich Steiner, who works with indigenous communities, and Jaime Spengler, CNBB president, advocate for a socially engaged Church, aligned with Francis’ legacy.
Brazil’s influence is also reflected in its religious culture, marked by events like the 2013 World Youth Day and devotion to Our Lady of Aparecida. While a Brazilian pope is unlikely, the country’s cardinals can shape discussions on the Church’s future, particularly on social justice and ecology.
Brazil’s participation in the conclave underscores the importance of Latin America, home to about 40% of the world’s Catholics. Francis’ election, the first Latin American pope in 2013, was a milestone, and the new conclave may reinforce this regional influence.
Announcing the new pope
The “Habemus Papam” moment is the conclave’s climax, when the new pope is presented to the world. From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the cardinal protodeacon proclaims the phrase in Latin, announcing the elected pope’s name and papal title. The crowd in St. Peter’s Square, which may gather tens of thousands, celebrates with applause and prayers.
The new pope delivers his first blessing, known as “Urbi et Orbi” (to the city and the world), marking the start of his pontificate. This event is broadcast globally, reaching millions of faithful and onlookers. The choice of papal name, often symbolic, may indicate the new pontiff’s priorities.
The transition to the new pontificate is swift, with the pope immediately assuming his duties. In the following days, he appoints collaborators, celebrates masses, and sets the general direction of his governance, signaling how he will lead the Church in the years ahead.
Global expectations for the conclave
The 2025 conclave draws worldwide attention, not only among Catholics but also from political leaders, scholars, and the media. The new pope’s selection could influence global debates on ethics, the environment, and human rights. Francis’ election, as an Argentine, brought a fresh perspective to the Church, and the next pontiff will need to maintain this dynamism.
The diversity of the 135 cardinals, hailing from every continent, reflects the Catholic Church’s universality. While Europe still dominates, with about 50% of cardinals, the growing presence of representatives from Africa, Asia, and Latin America suggests the next pope could come from a non-traditional region, such as Africa, where Catholicism is rapidly expanding.
Expectations include the selection of a leader combining charisma, pastoral vision, and administrative skill. The ability to engage youth, address internal crises, and promote unity will be critical to the new pontificate’s success.
The significance of the Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel, where the conclave takes place, is more than a voting venue—it is a symbol of Catholic faith. Its frescoes, including Michelangelo’s “Last Judgment,” create an atmosphere of spiritual reflection. Cardinals, surrounded by this art, are reminded of the responsibility of their choice, which will impact millions of faithful.
The chapel is prepared in advance, with chairs and urns set up for voting. Technical teams conduct sweeps to ensure no electronic devices are present, safeguarding secrecy. The conclave’s logistics, involving the coordination of 135 cardinals and dozens of staff, is a meticulously planned organizational feat by the Vatican.
The choice of the Sistine Chapel reinforces tradition’s continuity, linking the 2025 conclave to centuries of Church history. For cardinals, the setting is an invitation to introspection, while for the outside world, it is an icon of one of Christianity’s most significant events.
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