If you’ve ever wanted a front-row seat to what goes on at the conclave… this episode of Morning Air is pure gold. Rome correspondent Ashley Noronha walks us through the very beginnings of the papal conclave: that ultra-secret, solemn, and deeply moving process that leads to the selection of a new Successor of St. Peter. 🕊️
🕯️ The Morning Kicks Off with Mass (and a Lot of Saints)
The day began with the Mass for the Election of the Roman Pontiff in St. Peter’s Basilica: imagine the Litany of Saints echoing through the marble halls, cardinals in red, and the world watching with bated breath. 🙏
Ashley, who lives in Rome, reminds us that 133 voting cardinals (under age 80) are gathering under the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling for this sacred moment. Pope Francis appointed about 80% of them.
Move-In (Vatican-Style)
Before things began, the cardinals had to check in to their conclave lodgings (Casa Santae Marthae for the majority of cardinals.) But don’t picture room service and mint pillows. Every room was inspected, sealed, and required a literal wax seal to be broken by each cardinal.
✝️ The Secret Ceremony Begins
Ashley paints the picture:
The cardinals process from the Pauline Chapel to the Sistine Chapel chanting “Veni Creator Spiritus” 🎶
Once inside, they swear an oath (in Latin!) to secrecy and integrity.
Vatican security activates drone-blocking tech, signal jammers, and even privacy film on the windows to make sure there’s zero leaking.
✍️ Voting 101
Each cardinal gets:
-A cherry-wood seat
-A red folder
-A ballot with the Latin phrase “I elect as Supreme Pontiff…”
They write their pick, and they even disguise their handwriting. ✏️
They approach Michelangelo’s “Last Judgment” and drop their vote in with an oath before God. Three randomly selected cardinals (scrutineers) then tally up the votes: threading each paper onto a string! If there’s no winner… it goes into the stove it goes with a chemical packet = black smoke.
Expected tonight: one vote and the smoke signal around 7pm Rome time.
Why This Conclave Is So Unique
Ashley reveals that this is the largest conclave ever, with cardinals from more nations than ever before, including some first timers. With so many new faces, it’s taking longer for them to discern who should lead the Church next.
It could be quick or could be longer. But one thing’s for sure: the Holy Spirit is moving, and so is the anticipation. ❤️🔥
So, keep your eyes on that chimney. The next puff of white smoke might just bring us a new Papa.
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