Vatican Conclave Begins: The Search for the Next Pope

The conclave at the Vatican has officially commenced, where a historic number of cardinals will cast their votes to elect the new leader of the Catholic Church following Pope Francis. The uncertainty of candidates adds intrigue to the proceedings.

As the sun sets over Vatican City, the world holds its breath as the conclave to elect the new pope begins. A record-breaking 133 cardinals, representing around 70 countries, have gathered in the iconic Sistine Chapel. Cloistered under Michelangelo's celebrated frescoes, these church leaders will remain isolated until they arrive at a consensus on who will lead the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.

Jason Horowitz, our Rome bureau chief, emphasizes the enigmatic nature of this conclave. “Once they are in, we’ll know practically nothing,” he revealed, anticipating the well-known smoke signals that will soon emerge from the chapel. Black smoke indicates a failed election, while white smoke will signal the selection of the new pontiff, who will appear on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The opening votes are expected to be mostly symbolic, gauging support for various candidates. However, should the conclave extend into its second day without a decision, it may hint at the cardinals' struggle to unify behind a single choice.

This particular conclave carries additional suspense due to the shifting dynamics within the college of cardinals since Pope Francis took the papal throne in 2013. Among potential successors is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who currently serves as the Vatican's second-in-command and could ensure continuity. Meanwhile, Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle from the Philippines is favored as a liberal choice and would make history as the first pope from Southeast Asia. As discussions unfold, the anticipation grows for who will ultimately guide the Catholic Church into the future.