History of Conclave, Start of Another and Expectations

By James Katende – The papal conclave is a solemn and secretive process through which the College of Cardinals elects a new pope following the death or resignation of the incumbent. This tradition, deeply rooted in the history of the Catholic Church, has evolved over centuries, reflecting changes in society, the Church’s needs, and the broader world.

The origins of the papal conclave date back to the 13th century. In 1274, the Second Council of Lyons established that the election of a pope should be conducted by the College of Cardinals. However, it was not until the 13th century that the conclave became a formalised process. The term “conclave” itself comes from the Latin “cum clave,” meaning “with a key,” referring to the practice of locking the cardinals in a room to ensure secrecy during the election.

Over the centuries, the rules governing the conclave have been refined. In 1588, Pope Sixtus V established the Congregation of the Sacred Rites, which later became the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, to oversee the election process. In 1904, Pope Pius X introduced the requirement that all cardinals under the age of 80 participate in the conclave. The most significant reforms came with Pope John Paul II’s apostolic constitution, Universi Dominici Gregis, in 1996, which set out detailed procedures for the conclave, including the requirement for a two-thirds majority to elect a new pope and the use of smoke signals to announce the election results.

The 2013 papal conclave, held from March 12 to 13, was a pivotal moment in Church history. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, the first pope to resign in nearly 600 years, 115 cardinal electors gathered in the Sistine Chapel to choose his successor. After five ballots, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina was elected and took the name Pope Francis. His election marked a significant shift in the Church’s direction, emphasising humility, social justice, and a focus on the marginalised.

As the conclave begins today, May 7, 2025, the Catholic Church stands at another crossroads. With the passing of Pope Francis, 133 cardinals from 70 nations have gathered to elect a new pope. This conclave is notable not only for its size but also for the diversity of its participants. Many of the electors were appointed by Pope Francis, reflecting his vision for a more inclusive and globally representative Church. The cardinals are expected to deliberate on the legacy of Pope Francis and the direction the Church should take in the coming years.

The expectations for the new pope are varied and complex. Many Catholics hope for a leader who will continue Pope Francis’s emphasis on mercy, inclusivity, and social justice. There is a desire for a pope who will address pressing issues such as climate change, poverty, and the rights of refugees and migrants. At the same time, some factions within the Church advocate for a return to traditional practices and teachings. The challenge for the new pope will be to navigate these differing expectations and lead the Church with wisdom and compassion.

As the conclave commences, the eyes of the world turn to the Sistine Chapel, awaiting the white smoke that will signal the election of a new pope. The outcome of this conclave will shape the future of the Catholic Church and its role in the world.

In this moment of transition, it is fitting to offer a prayer for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the election of the new pope.

Prayer for the beginning of the conclave

Almighty and eternal God,
We come before You in this sacred moment, seeking Your divine guidance as the College of Cardinals convenes to elect a new shepherd for Your Church. Grant them wisdom, discernment, and unity of purpose. May Your Holy Spirit inspire their hearts and minds, leading them to choose a pope who will faithfully serve Your people and uphold the teachings of Christ. Bless the Church with a leader who will promote peace, justice, and compassion in a world in need of healing.  We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen