The Vatican has closed the Sistine Chapel as preparations begin for the upcoming conclave to elect the next pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 21 at the age of 88. Francis was laid to rest on Saturday after a funeral that drew world leaders and a large crowd, and the mourning period continues for nine days before the conclave can officially begin.
The church is now focused on organizing the conclave, with key preparations including the installation of a chimney where the ballots will be burned after each vote. This process is an ancient tradition that was depicted in the 2024 film Conclave. For those lucky enough to visit the chapel on Sunday, it was a rare opportunity to see the iconic site before it becomes inaccessible for an uncertain period.
On Monday, the Catholic cardinals announced that the conclave will begin on May 7, following a day of informal meetings after Francis’ funeral. Once the conclave starts, the cardinals will enter the Sistine Chapel in a solemn procession to participate in the secretive election process, which is believed to be guided by the Holy Spirit. This process will determine whether the next pope will continue Francis’ focus on issues like poverty, the marginalized, and the environment, or if they will choose a more conservative leader like Benedict XVI, who emphasized doctrine.
The cardinals will be surrounded by the magnificent frescoes of Michelangelo and other Renaissance artists during their deliberations. The chapel, named after Pope Sixtus IV, was completed in the 15th century, but it was Pope Julius II who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the iconic ceiling, including The Creation of Adam, and later the Last Judgment on one of the walls.
When the conclave officially begins, the cardinals will chant the Litany of Saints, a mystical Gregorian chant, and take an oath of secrecy. The thick doors of the chapel will then close, and the master of liturgy will announce “Extra omnes,” signaling that everyone else must leave.
This secretive process ensures that the election remains free from external influence. The world will then wait for a sign that a new pope has been chosen. If black smoke rises from the chimney, it means no decision has been made yet. When a pope is selected, white smoke will signal the news, followed by the tolling of bells.
