How a New Pope Is Chosen: Inside the Papal Conclave Process

With the passing of Pope Francis, many people are wondering how a new pope is chosen. When a pope dies or resigns, the Catholic Church begins the sacred process of choosing a new pope through a papal conclave. Unlike political elections, this solemn event is deeply spiritual and steeped in tradition, reminding us that the Holy Spirit leads the Church.

But how does a conclave actually work? And what can we do during this important time?

In this article, we will explore how a new pope is chosen, what happens inside the Sistine Chapel, and how Catholics can participate through prayer.

The Passing of Pope Francis

The Church mourns the passing of Pope Francis, the 266th successor of St. Peter. As the first Jesuit and the first pope from the Americas, he led with humility, compassion for the marginalized, and a deep call to mercy and encounter.

He urged us to look beyond ourselves, care for creation, and live the Gospel with joy. His passing marks the end of a historic papacy and the beginning of prayerful discernment for the Church’s next leader.

In this time of global reflection, Catholics give thanks for his life and leadership and pray for the repose of his soul.

What Is a Conclave?

The term conclave comes from the Latin cum clave, meaning “with a key.” This refers to how cardinals are literally and symbolically locked in until they elect a new pope.

The conclave takes place in the Sistine Chapel, under Michelangelo’s fresco of the Last Judgment—a powerful reminder of the eternal significance of this decision.

Step-by-Step: How a New Pope Is Chosen

1. Gathering the Cardinals
After the pope’s death or resignation, the College of Cardinals convenes in Rome. Only cardinals under age 80 may vote—typically around 120 in total. Before the conclave begins, they spend time in prayer, reflection, and informal discussions.

2. Entering the Conclave
Once inside the Sistine Chapel, the cardinals swear an oath of secrecy and are cut off from the outside world. Each cardinal writes his chosen candidate’s name on a folded ballot and places it in a chalice on the altar.

3. Voting and Smoke Signals
Voting occurs twice each morning and afternoon. If no one receives a two-thirds majority, the ballots are burned with chemicals, creating black smoke—a sign no pope has been elected.

When a candidate finally secures the required votes, the ballots are burned without chemicals, releasing white smoke. The bells of St. Peter’s ring out, signaling to the world: We have a new pope.

4. The Announcement
The elected cardinal is asked if he accepts the role. If he does, he chooses a papal name. Moments later, the cardinal protodeacon steps onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and declares: Habemus Papam—”We have a pope!”

The new Holy Father then offers his first apostolic blessing, Urbi et Orbi—to the city and the world.

Our Role: Praying with the Church

While the cardinals vote behind closed doors, the entire Body of Christ is called to participate—not with ballots, but with prayer.

During a conclave, we are invited to:

• Pray for the Holy Spirit to lead the cardinals in unity and wisdom.
• Entrust the process to Mary, Mother of the Church, and ask for her intercession
• Fast or offer sacrifices for the Church and her future leader.
• Trust in Christ’s promise: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church” (Matthew 16:18).

This is not a time for speculation or fear—it is a time for faithful confidence in the Lord.

Dive Deeper

To help families, catechists, and anyone curious about this beautiful process, we’ve included a helpful video from Fr. Mike Schmitz:

It covers everything from the secret ballots to the black and white smoke, making it an excellent teaching tool for children and adults alike.

In times of transition, the Catholic Church doesn’t just look inward—it looks upward. Let us do the same. May we be united in prayer, confident in Christ’s leadership, and ready to welcome the new pope with joy and obedience.

Jesus, I TRUST in You.