The Vatican has initiated preparations for the upcoming papal conclave, set to commence on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21. As part of these preparations, the Vatican Fire Brigade has installed the traditional chimney atop the Sistine Chapel. This chimney will emit either black or white smoke to indicate the outcome of each voting session: black smoke signifies no pope has been elected, while white smoke announces the election of a new pope.
The conclave will be conducted by 135 cardinal electors, the majority of whom were appointed by Pope Francis. These cardinals are currently engaged in pre-conclave meetings, discussing the future direction of the Catholic Church. Key topics include the Vatican’s financial challenges and debates over Pope Francis’s reforms, such as allowing laypeople and women to lead Vatican departments. Notably, Pope Francis appointed two nuns to significant leadership roles, symbolizing his belief in expanding women’s roles in church governance. However, some cardinals have expressed concerns over these changes.
The conclave is expected to last two to three days. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, has emerged as a leading candidate, garnering public support for his alignment with Pope Francis’s mission. Despite ideological divisions among the cardinals, there is a shared emphasis on unity as the Church’s primary need moving forward.
During the conclave, each cardinal writes his choice on a rectangular piece of paper inscribed with the words “Eligo in summen pontificem” — Latin for “I elect as Supreme Pontiff.” After the votes are counted, the ballots are burned in a cast-iron stove, and the resulting smoke signals the outcome to the public.
For those interested in witnessing this historic event, the Vatican’s official channels will provide live updates and coverage of the conclave proceedings.