Cardinal Dolan's Must-Have Tips for Conclave First-Timers

Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan shares advice for those attending the conclave for the first time, highlighting the importance of staying occupied during lengthy voting processes.

In Vatican City, preparations are underway as cardinals gear up for the crucial conclave to select the next pope. Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York has taken the opportunity to extend a warm invitation to first-time conclave attendees, encouraging them to bring reading materials to combat the downtime experienced during voting sessions. “Bring a book,” he humorously suggested in a recent interview, reflecting on his own experience during the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013.

The conclave itself is a solemn and secretive affair, conducted in the Sistine Chapel. Cardinal electors are bound by an oath of secrecy and utilize a secret ballot system, casting votes until one candidate receives the requisite two-thirds majority to assume the papacy. This process can extend for hours, leading to significant periods of silence and anticipation.

Cardinal Dolan likened the conclave's atmosphere to a reflective space, where he plans to engage with a biography of Michelangelo, a fitting choice given his surroundings. The artistic splendor of the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo's masterpieces including "The Last Judgment," provides a breathtaking backdrop for this pivotal moment in the Catholic Church. As traditions unfold in the hallowed halls, the cardinals' decisions will shape the future of the church, all while finding ways to fill the quiet moments, emphasizing the depth and deliberation that comes with each ballot cast.