In the wake of a Pope’s passing, the world often wonders — how is the next one chosen?
Technically, the requirements are simple: you must be male and a practising Catholic. But in reality, the path to becoming Pope is much more structured and steeped in tradition.
“You can’t just decide to become Pope,” a Vatican insider once noted. “It starts with seminary, then priesthood. From there, it’s about earning respect.”
Priests who gain the trust and admiration of their communities can be appointed as bishops. A bishop, in essence, leads a diocese — a specific Catholic district. Some bishops later become archbishops, who not only lead their own dioceses but also supervise others.
Both bishops and archbishops are chosen by the Pope. “These roles aren’t jobs you apply for. You’re noticed by the Vatican, and you have to make a strong impression,” the insider explained.
From the pool of archbishops, the Pope selects certain individuals to become cardinals. Cardinals usually represent regions with large Catholic populations, although not all areas are granted one.
When a Pope passes, the process of selecting a new one begins in what is called a conclave. The College of Cardinals — those under a certain age — are called to Rome.
The word conclave literally means “with a key,” and for good reason. “Once the conclave starts, we are completely sealed inside the Sistine Chapel,” one cardinal shared. “There’s no phone, no internet. Nothing from the outside world can reach us. It’s designed to prevent any outside influence.”
Before voting begins, the cardinals attend a special mass. They then take an oath of secrecy and pledge to follow the rules of the conclave.
Voting begins shortly after. To be elected, a cardinal must secure at least a two-thirds majority from his peers. The cardinals vote up to four times a day until this majority is reached.
While open campaigning is frowned upon, there are usually a few well-known names under quiet consideration. “Your reputation matters. If your fellow cardinals respect you, that goes a long way,” one source added.
After every vote, ballots and notes are burned. The smoke from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel tells the world what’s happening.
Black smoke means no Pope yet. But white smoke? That’s when the bells begin to ring. It means a new Pope has been chosen.
