Papal Election Conclave Begins March 12

On TUESDAY, MARCH 12,  each cardinal-elector will take an oath reaffirming their unfailing fidelity to the Church and absolute silence about what happens behind the locked doors of the SISTINE CHAPEL. All will enter into the Sistine Chapel, the doors will be locked and soon thereafter the PAPAL CONCLAVE commences with the taking of the FIRST BALLOT.

Until a man attains the required 2/3 majority (77 votes by the 115 total cardinal-electors), up to four ballots are taken each subsequent day. If a new pope has not been chosen after three days, the process ceases for a single day of talks and reflection.

A man immediately becomes the pope upon his acceptance.

Smoke from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel informs the world about the proceedings. When the ballots are burned, if the smoke is white, a 2/3 majority was attained and we have a new pope. Soon, thereafter, the announcement will be made to the world, “Habemus Papam!” – or “we have a pope!”

Here’s hoping these venerable Church traditions will remain intact and not give way to social media outlets announcing the new pope!

Like this article? Share it!