Conclave 2025: How It Works and Who Could Be the Next Pope?

With the world watching and speculation mounting, the Catholic Church is preparing for one of its most sacred and secretive rites: the election of a new pope. The College of Cardinals will soon gather in Rome for the 2025 conclave, where the next spiritual leader of more than 1.3 billion Catholics will be chosen. Here’s how it all works—and who might wear the white cassock next.

Locked In: The Conclave 2025 Process Explained

The word “conclave” comes from the Latin cum clave—“with key”—a nod to the seclusion required during this ancient tradition. Only about 135 of the Church’s roughly 250 cardinals are eligible to vote (those over age 80 are excluded), and the majority were appointed by Pope Francis, reflecting his progressive vision for a more inclusive Church.

Once the cardinals arrive in Rome—usually within 15 to 20 days of a pope’s death—they enter the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel beneath Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling. According to The Guardian, the doors are locked after the announcement of “extra omnes” (“everyone out”), and absolute secrecy is enforced. No phones, no newspapers, no contact with the outside world. Even the chapel is swept for bugs.

The cardinals stay in the nearby St. Martha’s guesthouse, which has served as Pope Francis’ residence for over a decade. The conclave begins with mass, and then the voting begins: morning and afternoon ballots until someone earns a two-thirds majority. After seven inconclusive votes, the cardinals pause for a day of prayer and reflection.

Conclave 2025: Smoke Signals and Sacred Rituals

Each elector receives a ballot card printed with “eligo in summum pontificem”—“I elect as supreme pontiff.” After discreetly writing a name, folding the paper, and dropping it into a chalice, the suspense begins. Following every voting session, ballots are burned with chemicals that make the smoke either black (no pope yet) or white (a decision has been reached).

Once a candidate accepts his election and chooses a papal name, he is led to the “Room of Tears” to change into his vestments. Tailors will have prepared cassocks in three sizes—just in case.

Finally, the dean of the College of Cardinals steps onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and proclaims: “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”), as crowds cheer and the new pope greets the world for the first time.

The Front-Runners: Who Could Be the Next Pope?

While technically any baptized Catholic male can be elected, the job nearly always goes to a cardinal. According to The New York Post, several names are generating buzz as the world awaits white smoke.

Cardinal Luis Tagle (67, Philippines)

Once considered a favorite, Tagle faced criticism for management issues while leading Caritas International. Still, his progressive views on issues like same-sex relationships and Communion for non-traditional couples mirror Pope Francis’ own ethos.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin (70, Italy)

Currently, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Parolin, is widely respected for his diplomatic chops and ties to global politics. Though his stances lean conservative, his openness to dialogue with regimes like Communist China gives him wide appeal.

Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (66, France)

Some see Aveline as Francis’ personal favorite. He is both intellectually formidable and pastorally warm. His support for decentralizing Church authority has made him popular in progressive circles—and, according to some insiders, a “dangerous contender. “

Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk (71, Netherlands)

A doctrinal conservative with a medical and theological background, Eijk would appeal to traditionalists. He’s firmly against same-sex blessings and women’s ordination, and has a reputation for clear, no-nonsense leadership.

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith (77, Sri Lanka)

Though older, Ranjith could be a compromise candidate. He blends conservative liturgical views with a strong emphasis on serving the poor and protecting the environment—a mix that bridges the legacies of Benedict XVI and Francis.

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