Who Will Be the Next Pope? Even the Cardinals Don't Know

 

Who Will Be the Next Pope? Even the Cardinals Don't Know

The identity of the next pope remains uncertain as the college of 133 cardinals prepares to enter the conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor. Despite a few names being floated as potential front-runners, many cardinals still have no definitive preference, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of this historic process.

The cardinals have been holding daily meetings and giving speeches that could influence their opinions. Past conclaves, such as the one in 2013, illustrate how these discussions and speeches play a pivotal role in shaping the outlook of the electors. For instance, Argentine Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio’s speech during those pre-vote deliberations famously helped secure his election as Pope Francis.

Many participating cardinals acknowledge that they have yet to form clear opinions about who will emerge victorious. Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye of Singapore emphasized the uncertainty, noting that no voting has yet taken place and that the process continues to evolve. The conclave itself is set to commence with a special Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, followed by the formal procession into the Sistine Chapel, where voting will begin.

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The voting process involves multiple rounds, with a two-thirds majority required for a candidate’s election. If no result is reached after several rounds, a prayerful pause is observed before voting continues. The only visible sign to the outside world will come from the smoke emitted through a chimney atop the chapel, turning black if votes are inconclusive or white if a new pope has been chosen.

Throughout the process, the cardinals are living and dining together in sequestered in the Vatican, fostering behind-the-scenes discussions and negotiations. After each ballot, the cardinals share impressions and perspectives during meals and informal interactions, influences that can be decisive in such a secretive and delicate selection. Ultimately, the conclave remains an unpredictable event, with the next pope’s identity unfolding only when the ballots reveal a winner.