The 133 cardinal electors of the Catholic Church on Wednesday took their oath of secrecy and entered into conclave to begin the process of electing a new pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
The cardinals gathered inside the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, where they listened to a spiritual meditation delivered by the former Preacher of the Papal Household before commencing the election process. In line with tradition, the electors will remain in strict isolation throughout the conclave to prevent external influence.
The process is governed by centuries-old rituals and protocols. A new pontiff will be announced when white smoke rises from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel—a signal to the world that a decision has been reached.
Pope Francis, the 266th pope, was elected in 2013 and served until his death last month.
Among the prominent names being speculated as potential successors are Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo, according to various media reports.
