The Catholic Church is preparing for a very important event. On May 7th, 2025, the Cardinals will begin the conclave to elect the 267th Pope, following special prayers for Pope Francis, who has passed away. This election will take place in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican, which will be closed to visitors during this time.
The Pope is not just a leader; he is the visible head of the Catholic Church on earth. One of his main roles is to continue the missionary efforts of the Church — that is, to share the love of Jesus Christ with all people, everywhere.
Before the conclave begins, the Cardinals will celebrate a special Mass called the Pro Eligendo Papa — a prayer asking God to guide them in choosing the right leader for the Church. In a solemn procession, the Cardinals will walk to the Sistine Chapel and take a sacred oath. They promise to keep everything secret and to act only for the good of the Church, without outside influences.
From the beginning, Jesus sent His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations.” The Pope, as the Successor of Saint Peter, carries out this command. He leads Catholics in living their faith and reaching out to those who do not yet know God’s love.
The conclave is very serious. Cardinals cannot send letters, make phone calls, or follow the news until the new Pope is chosen. They vote in secret, needing a two-thirds majority to elect the next Pope. If no one is chosen after a few rounds, they stop for a day of prayer and reflection before voting again. When a Pope is finally elected, white smoke rises from the chapel’s chimney, signaling to the world: “We have a Pope!” — Habemus Papam!
Through his teachings, pastoral travels, and examples, the Pope reminds the Church of its duty to be missionary: to serve the poor, to bring peace, and to spread hope to the world. He encourages Catholics to be courageous, to go to the “edges” of society, and to never be afraid to share the Good News.
The new Pope accepts his role, chooses a new name, and immediately becomes the leader of the worldwide Church. Soon after, he steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to give his first blessing to the world: the Apostolic Blessing “Urbi et Orbi”.
Every time a new Pope is elected, it is a moment of new energy for this mission. It is a reminder that the Church is always alive, always moving forward, and always called to bring light to the world. The conclave and election are not just about choosing a leader — they are about choosing someone who will help the Church continue the mission Jesus gave it, until the end of time.
Adapted from Vatican News
