Vatican finalizes sacred space as Cardinals prepare to elect new Pope
A total of 133 cardinals are set to take part in this sacred process, which will soon determine the 267th leader of the global Catholic community.
The Vatican is making final arrangements in the Sistine Chapel, preparing for one of the most solemn and closely watched events in the Catholic Church, the election of a new pope.
A total of 133 cardinals are set to take part in this sacred process, which will soon determine the 267th leader of the global Catholic community.
Fresh photos and video released by the Vatican’s press office on Saturday revealed rare scenes inside the chapel, showcasing its detailed transformation for the conclave.
On Friday, Vatican firefighters were spotted installing the chimney above the chapel, a key element of the process.
It will be used to release smoke that informs the world of the election’s progress.
Dark smoke means no decision has been reached, while white smoke signals that a new pontiff has been chosen by at least 89 of the voting cardinals.
Before the voting begins, the cardinals will participate in a special Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica at 10 in the morning, asking for spiritual direction through the Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice service.
Later in the day, at 4:30 in the afternoon, the cardinals will gather in the Pauline Chapel, where they will chant the Litany of the Saints and then walk in silence to the Sistine Chapel.
Once inside, the electors will each take a solemn oath.
They pledge to carry out the responsibilities of the papacy with complete dedication if elected, keep the proceedings absolutely secret, and remain free from any outside pressure.
After the oath, the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Ceremonies will give the command “extra omnes,” requiring everyone not involved in the election to leave the chapel.
Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, who formerly served as preacher to the papal household, will offer a final spiritual reflection to the cardinals.
Once his message is delivered, he and the Master of Ceremonies will exit, leaving the cardinals to begin their deliberations under the guidance of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who heads the College of Cardinals.
The first vote is scheduled for the evening of May 7, followed by up to four rounds each day, two in the morning and two in the afternoon, until a decision is reached.
Each batch of ballots will be burned in the chapel's stove, producing the smoke that will alert the world of the outcome.
The conclave follows detailed procedures that date back centuries and are designed to ensure that the process remains confidential and free of influence.
No electronic devices are allowed in the Sistine Chapel, and a technical team has thoroughly checked the room for any hidden surveillance.
Security is also tight throughout Vatican City.
The Swiss Guard, along with Vatican police, is strictly controlling entry to key areas to maintain order and confidentiality.
Out of the 135 eligible electors, 133 will be present, coming from 71 countries on all six inhabited continents. Italy leads with 17 cardinals, followed by 10 from the United States and 7 from Brazil.
Two cardinals are unable to attend because of health concerns.
As the world watches and waits, the Vatican stands ready for the beginning of a historic moment, one that will shape the future of the Catholic Church.