Inside the Conclave: Behind the Scenes of the Papal Election Process

John Morales of Morning Air teamed up with Rome correspondent Ashley Noronha pto rovide a captivating behind-the-scenes walkthrough of the first day of the impending conclave. From solemn rituals to heightened security, they explored the intricate and prayerful process that will ultimately reveal the next successor of St. Peter.

The day began with the Mass for the Election of the Roman Pontiff in St. Peter’s Basilica. The Litany of Saints echoed through the marble halls as the cardinals, dressed in red, invoked the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Ashley noted that 133 voting cardinals—80% of whom were appointed by Pope Francis—are now sequestered in the Sistine Chapel under the watchful eyes of Michelangelo’s Last Judgment.

Before the proceedings began, the cardinals moved into their conclave quarters at Casa Santae Marthae. Each room was inspected, sealed, and marked with wax to prevent any external communication.

Ashley vividly describes the scene as the cardinals processed from the Pauline Chapel to the Sistine Chapel, chanting the ancient hymn Veni Creator Spiritus. Once inside, they swore an oath in Latin, promising secrecy and integrity throughout the conclave.

Meanwhile, Vatican security activated advanced privacy measures, including drone-blocking technology and signal jammers, ensuring total isolation from the outside world.

Each cardinal takes a seat at a cherry-wood desk with a red folder and a ballot marked with the phrase, “I elect as Supreme Pontiff…” They write their chosen candidate, carefully disguising their handwriting, and approach Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment to cast their vote.

Three cardinals, randomly selected as scrutineers, tally the votes by threading each paper onto a string. If no one receives the required two-thirds majority, the ballots are burned with a chemical packet to produce black smoke, a signal that no pope has been chosen.

With cardinals representing more nations than ever before, this is the largest conclave in history. Ashley noted that the diversity of backgrounds is adding to the complexity of discerning the right leader for the global Church.

Expectations are high as the first vote is scheduled for tonight, with the smoke signal expected around 7 p.m. Rome time.

Want to receive more information about the life and legacy of Pope Francis, as well as updates on the upcoming conclave? Sign up for SmokeWatch here.

At this pivotal moment in our Church history, don’t just observe the conclave – understand it, experience it, and pray through it with Relevant Radio at Conclave2025.com.