On May 7, 2025, a conclave will begin in the Vatican, during which cardinals-electors will elect the successor of Pope Francis. This event attracts the attention of the whole world and brings great importance to the Catholic Church and international politics.
What is a conclave, and why is it so emotional?
Conclave, of Latin cum clave ("with the key"), it is an extremely mysterious and traditional process of choosing a new pope. Cardinals-electors are locked up in the Sistine Chapel, where – isolated from the world – they vote even several times a day, until they reach the required two-thirds majority. Each stage of the election is wrapped in an aura of secret, and the world awaits the famous white smoke, which means the election of a new bishop of Rome.
Key dates and numbers – what is worth knowing?
- Pope Francis died on 21 April 2025 after more than 12 years of pontificate.
- According to canon law, the conclave must begin at the earliest 15 days after the Pope's death – hence the date on 7 May.
- The election will be attended by 133 cardinal-electors from 71 countries (originally 135, but two withdrew for health reasons).
- Among the electors are four Poles.
- Most cardinals have been appointed by Pope Francis, which may affect the direction of future reforms of the Church.
- Key facts about Conclave 2025
| Start date | Place | Number of electors | Poles among electors | Number of countries represented |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 7, 2025 | Sistine Chapel | 133 | 4 | 71 |
How is the pope's election going?
The Pope's election process is clearly defined:
Cardinals-electors are locked in the Sistine Chapel.
A maximum of four votes are held each day – two in the morning, two in the afternoon.
The vote is secret; the candidate must obtain a two-thirds majority.
The result of the vote signals smoke from the chimney: black means no choice, white means the choice of a new pope.
The new Pope is proclaimed with the words "Habemus Papam" from the balcony of St Peter's Basilica.
Why is this conclave special?
This year's conclave is of particular importance because most electors were appointed by the late Pope Francis. This could mean continuing his reforms – greater openness of the Church, interreligious dialogue or decentralisation of power. The election of the new Pope will affect not only the direction of the Church, but also world politics, especially in the context of challenges such as migration, climate change or armed conflicts.
When do we meet the new Pope?
If the votes run smoothly, the name of the new Pope will be known by the first half of May. The world is looking forward to the moment when white smoke will rise from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel and the words "Habemus Papam" will fall from the balcony of St Peter's Basilica.
Conclave 2025 is not only a religious ritual, but also an event that can affect the course of history. It is worth following these days with attention – the future of the Church and its role in the world depend on decisions that will follow the closed doors of the Sistine Chapel.
