Today, on May 7, the attention of the entire Catholic world and the global public is focused on the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican — where the process of electing a new Pope, that is, the conclave, has officially begun.
This ceremony holds immense significance for Catholics around the world, having not only religious but also political and social implications. The conclave is a gathering of the highest-ranking cardinals in the Vatican after the papal office becomes vacant, and they elect a new pontiff for the entire world through a secret ballot.
It is worth noting that the conclave is distinguished by its high level of secrecy. Before entering the voting process, the cardinals take an oath and completely sever their ties with the outside world. This is a tradition that encourages them to make decisions solely based on religious responsibility and conscience.
The number of cardinals participating in the election this time is around 130, all under the age of 80, coming from various countries and holding high prestige within the Catholic Church.
If no candidate receives the necessary majority of votes during the voting, the election will not conclude. In this case, black smoke will rise from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that a new pontiff has not been elected. However, if white smoke rises — it indicates that a new Pope has been elected, and the bells of the Vatican will ring throughout the city.
Immediately, the words "Habemus Papam!" (We have a Pope!) will be proclaimed as the new pontiff is introduced to the public.
At the same time, millions of Catholics and political observers around the world are eagerly awaiting the white smoke from the conclave. Who the new Pope will be and what spiritual and political direction he will choose is generating significant interest not only within the church but also on the international stage.
Thus, another important historical process has begun in the Vatican — this event may open a new chapter not only in religious but also in the spiritual life of humanity.
