How the Next Pope Is Chosen: Step-by-Step Guide

Pope Francis died Monday morning at the age of 88, according to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo. With the papal seat now officially vacant, the Roman Catholic Church will begin the traditional process of selecting a new pope.

How the Next Pope Is Chosen

The death of a pope marks a solemn but historic moment for the Catholic Church.

Following the passing of Pope Francis, the Church will now enter a period of mourning and preparation for one of the most sacred rituals in the faith: the election of a new pope.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to how that process works.

Step 1: The Papal Vacancy

Once the pope passes away (or resigns, which is rare), the papal seat becomes vacant.

In this case, Pope Francis passed on April 21, 2025. His death sets into motion a carefully orchestrated series of steps governed by centuries of Catholic tradition.

Step 2: The College of Cardinals

The responsibility of choosing the next pope falls to the College of Cardinals.

Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote.

These senior church leaders come together from around the world for the selection process.

Step 3: The Conclave Begins

The conclave is a closed-door gathering held in the Sistine Chapel.

During this time, the cardinals are cut off from all outside communication.

They pray, discuss, and ultimately vote for the next leader of the Catholic Church.

Step 4: The Voting Process

Voting is done in secret.

A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope.

If no one reaches this threshold, ballots are burned and another round of voting takes place.

This process can take several days, with up to four votes per day.

Step 5: Smoke Signals from the Vatican

The public watches closely for the famous smoke signals from the Sistine Chapel.

White smoke = A new pope has been elected.

Black smoke = No decision has been made.

Step 6: Acceptance and Name Selection

Once a candidate receives the necessary votes, he’s asked whether he accepts the role.

If he agrees, he chooses a papal name and becomes the new pope.

Step 7: The World Watches – “Habemus Papam”

When a new pope is chosen, he appears on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The announcement is made with the Latin phrase “Habemus Papam” (“We have a pope”), followed by the new pope’s name and his first public blessing.