Papal Election: How a New Pope Is Chosen

When a Pope dies or steps down, the world watches the Vatican’s secretive but fascinating process of picking his successor. It’s called a papal election, and despite the drama, the steps are surprisingly straightforward.

The election begins with a call to every cardinal under the age of 80. They travel to Rome and gather in the Sistine Chapel, the only place where the actual voting takes place. The doors are locked, phones are taken away, and no one can leave until a new Pope is elected. This sealed‑off setting, known as a conclave, is meant to keep outside influence out of the decision.

The Conclave Process

Each cardinal writes the name of his choice on a paper ballot. After everyone has voted, the ballots are burned. Black smoke means no one has reached the required two‑thirds majority. White smoke signals that a candidate has crossed that threshold and is the new Pope.

The voting can happen up to four times a day—two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Most elections finish within a few days, but the longest modern conclave lasted 33 days in 2013. To win, a candidate needs at least 115 votes out of the 173 cardinals present.

Historically, the rules have evolved. Early elections were chaotic, with nobles crowding the streets of Rome. By the 13th century the College of Cardinals took over the job, and Pope Gregory X formalized many of the procedures still used today. Modern popes have added a few tech tweaks, like microphones for the “Habemus Papam” announcement, but the core ritual stays the same.

What Happens After the Vote

Once a cardinal receives the needed votes, he is asked if he accepts. He can say “yes” or decline, though refusals are rare. After acceptance, the new Pope chooses his papal name—often a tribute to a predecessor he admires. The name can signal the direction he intends to take, whether a focus on social justice, liturgical reform, or diplomatic outreach.

Immediately after the announcement, the new Pope appears on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. He blesses the crowd, and millions around the globe watch the “Habemus Papam” proclamation on TV or online. The first public Mass follows soon after, marking the start of his papacy.

Outside the Vatican, the Catholic Church begins preparing for the transition. Parishes update their calendars, and the new Pope’s policies start shaping everything from liturgy to international diplomacy. For many believers, the papal election isn’t just a ceremony—it’s a moment that can influence their faith and daily life.

There are a few common misconceptions. Some think the crowd in the Sistine Chapel decides, but it’s really just the cardinals. Others assume the Pope can be elected by popular vote; in reality, only the College of Cardinals gets that power. Knowing the real steps makes the whole process feel less mysterious and more human.

So whether you’re a Catholic, a history buff, or just curious about how the world’s most recognizable religious leader is chosen, the papal election blends tradition, secrecy, and a bit of suspense. Understanding the process gives you a clearer picture of why the white smoke is such a big deal.