Quick Step-by-Step Guide to How a Pope Is Elected

When a pope passes away or steps down, the world turns its attention to the Vatican. In the event of a pope's passing, the Church enters a period of mourning before the process of choosing his successor begins. Cardinals from around the world gather in Rome to prayerfully discern and elect the next leader of the Catholic Church—a process rich in history, tradition, and faith. But how does this election take place? Who is involved in the decision, and what are the key steps in selecting the next pope?

This article provides a clear and comprehensive guide to the papal election process. We'll explore the Papal Conclave, the qualifications required to become a pope, and the customs and pivotal moments that define the selection of a new pontiff! 

Step 1: The Cardinals Gather

It all starts when the pope’s seat becomes vacant—either due to his passing or, in rare cases, resignation. The cardinals from all over the world meet in the Vatican for what’s called 'General Congregations.'

This is their prep time to pray, discuss, and get ready for the election, which is known as the conclave.

By Church law, the conclave must begin no sooner than 15 days and no later than 20 days after the pope passes away or resigns.

Step 2: Mass & Prayer for the Holy Spirit’s Guidance

Before anything official happens, the cardinals celebrate Mass together in St. Peter’s Basilica, asking the Holy Spirit to guide them. Only cardinals under 80 years old can actually vote—these are called 'cardinal electors.' They must be under 80 because the Church recognizes that, at this stage of life, physical and mental capacities may naturally change. This rule seeks to ensure that individuals can fully participate in such an important decision-making process with clarity and confidence.

Step 3: Entering the Conclave & Secrecy Begins

The voting cardinals now process into the Sistine Chapel while chanting Veni Creator Spiritus, calling on the Holy Spirit. They take an oath of secrecy, and then comes a dramatic moment: the Master of Papal Liturgical Celebrations announces 'Extra omnes!'—which means 'All out!'

At this point, only the voting cardinals remain, plus a priest who gives a final meditation before he, too, leaves. Once the doors are locked, no one inside is allowed to communicate with the outside world. The conclave has officially begun!

Why is it all so secret? The election of a new pope is so secret to maintain the integrity of the process, prevent external influence, and foster an atmosphere of prayer and discernment.

Step 4: The Cardinal Electors Discuss Potential Candidates

Technically, any baptized male Catholic is eligible to be elected as a pope. You don't have to be a Cardinal! However, the pope is almost always chosen from among the College of Cardinals. But remember, only the electors can stay for this discussion. No retired cardinals or other clergy are permitted inside to discuss. This is where things get interesting as they weigh each candidate’s qualities and potential to lead the Church. They might discuss spiritual and moral integrity, holiness, and wisdom. Other things that might be considered are leadership skills, theological knowledge, experience, track record, and reputation.

The cardinals weigh all the important qualities carefully, keeping in mind the Church's needs. This process involves both prayerful discernment and practical considerations to select a leader who will guide the Church effectively in the years to come.

Step 5: The Voting Begins!

When it’s time to vote, each cardinal writes the name of his choice on a ballot, folds it, and places it in a large chalice. Then, they count the votes. A pope must receive 2/3 of the votes from the electors present to be chosen.

Fun fact: in the past, popes could be elected by acclamation—basically, by loud agreement—but now, the process requires a secret ballot.

Step 6: Black Smoke—No Pope Yet

If no candidate reaches the required 2/3 majority, the votes—and any notes the cardinals took during that round—are burned. If no pope is elected, a special mixture is added to make the smoke black. This tells the world, including you and me: 'Not yet, keep praying!'

Step 7: A Cardinal Receives ⅔ Majority

Rounds of voting continue (4 rounds each day) until a cardinal finally reaches the 2/3 majority. When this happens, he is asked if he accepts. He can say no. If this were to happen, they would resume voting until another cardinal obtains 2/3 majority—but if he accepts, he chooses a papal name and dresses in white for the first time.

Step 8: White Smoke–We Have A New Pope!

Now the world gets the big news. We have a new pope! They add a special mixture to the papers and ballots used during that round of voting to produce white smoke. It rises from the chimney, and bells ring across Rome! This is what you and I think of when we hear a new pope is being elected. It’s a joyful time for the faithful because it means we have a new Holy Father!

Step 9: Habemus Papam!—'We Have a Pope!'

The senior cardinal deacon—called the Cardinal Protodeacon—steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and announces, 'Habemus Papam!' ('We have a pope!').

The newly elected pope is presented to the world for the first time from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.

Step 10: The Urbi et Orbi Blessing

The first thing the new pope does? He blesses the city of Rome and the whole world with the Urbi et Orbi blessing. And while this blessing happens at other times too, there’s something really special about this first one as pope.

And there you have it—the incredible, sacred process of choosing the successor of St. Peter! How long does it take? That depends! Some conclaves wrap up in a day, others take weeks. But in recent history, it’s usually just a few days.

The election of a pope isn’t just some political process. It’s not simply a group of cardinals casting votes. This is an act of faith. It’s the Church, in all her wisdom and prayer, trusting that the Holy Spirit is at work. For over 2,000 years, through prayer, tradition, and his Word, Christ has guided his Church, ensuring that we always have a shepherd. And in the end, we can trust that when that white smoke rises, it’s not just a decision—it’s God’s providence at work.