The Catholic Church has officially entered the Sede Vacante, the phase of the papacy when the Chair of Peter stands empty and the world waits for a new Holy Father. With Pope Francis laid to rest and nine days of mourning now complete, the focus shifts to what comes next: the conclave.
Rome Correspondent Ashley Noronha reports that preparations are moving swiftly. As of April 28th, the Sistine Chapel has been sealed off to the public. The chimney that will signal the world with either white or black smoke was mounted last Friday. Vatican firefighters have already run smoke tests to ensure no dramatic backflow into the chapel.
A raised wooden floor has been installed, along with 12 simple wooden tables. This centuries-old space has once again become a sacred, cloistered room of global discernment.
Gone are the days of confusing “gray” smoke moments. To prevent any doubt, chemical compounds are now used to produce clear black or white smoke, with the white announcing a new pope. Then the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica will ring in joyful confirmation.
Out of 133 eligible cardinal electors, 129 will be present. The remaining four are either delayed or unable to travel. Notably, 80% of these electors were appointed by Pope Francis. And they come from across the globe — from Myanmar to Haiti, Iraq to Mongolia — a testament to the Church’s growing universality.
The novendiales concluded this past Sunday with a final Mass of mourning celebrated by Cardinal Kevin Farrell. In his homily, he offered a moving tribute to Pope Francis, emphasizing that “the papal mission is a mission of love” and reminding the Church that at the core of leadership is Christ’s command: “Feed my sheep.”
Cardinal Farrell, now the protodeacon, will also be the one to proclaim “Habemus Papam!” when the new pontiff is elected.
The conclave begins Wednesday, May 7. Until then, the cardinals continue to meet each morning, praying and reflecting on what kind of shepherd the Church needs now.
As Ashley reminds us, the whole Church is invited into this moment of discernment. So let’s join in:
Come, Holy Spirit. Guide your Church. We are listening.
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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.
