The Sun
Roman Catholic cardinals commenced a historic conclave Wednesday to elect a new pope, sequestering themselves in the Sistine Chapel to choose a successor to Pope Francis, who died last month. The 133 cardinals from 70 countries, the largest and most diverse conclave in history, began their secret deliberations after a public Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica.
No pope has been elected on the first day in centuries, and black smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney Wednesday evening, signalling an inconclusive initial vote. Voting is expected to continue for several days until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority to become the 267th pontiff.
The cardinals, barred from external communication, will rely on mediaeval traditions, with the Vatican employing high-tech measures like jamming devices to ensure secrecy.
Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle are considered frontrunners, though no clear favourite has emerged. Electors may coalesce around geography, doctrine, or language, with potential candidates including France’s Jean-Marc Aveline, Hungary’s Peter Erdo, American Robert Prevost, and Italy’s Pierbattista Pizzaballa.
The choice will shape the future of the 1.4-billion-member Church, with 80% of the cardinals appointed by Francis, raising the possibility of a pontiff continuing his progressive policies despite resistance from traditionalists.
As thousands gather in St Peter’s Square, the world watches for white smoke, signalling the announcement of “Habemus Papam” – we have a pope.