Pope selection process within Vatican conclave: Determining the threshold for a pontiff originating from Mexico
On Wednesday, May 7, the electoral journey for the new Pope begins within the grandeur of the Sistine Chapel. As per the Vatican, the first vote will transpire in the afternoon, following the "pro eligendo pontifice" mass[1].
Amidst global excitement, over 180 cardinals, including the two Mexicans, Carlos Aguiar Retes and José Robles, gather in the Vatican following Pope Francis' funeral. For the Mexicans to shines in the early voting rounds, they would need the backing of the 21 cardinals representing Latin American countries[1].
As of now, the College of Cardinals totals 252 members, out of which, 135 are eligible to cast their votes, since they are under 80 years old, the age a cardinal must be to participate in the conclave[1][2]. It is projected that about 133 or 134 cardinals will enter the Sistine Chapel to elect the succeeding leader of the Catholic Church.
Once the conclave commences, the cardinals will sing the hymn Veni, Creator Spiritus and pledge an oath, followed by voting sessions, typically two, unless the voting protocol advances faster[1][3]. The ballots will be incinerated after two scrutinies when the vote count still falls short of the two-thirds majority, which would amount to approximately 88 votes[1][3].
By geographical distribution, Europe contributes the highest number of cardinals, representing nearly 40% of the electorate. Followed by the American continent, which represents approximately 27.4%, Asia, 17%, Africa, 13.3%, and Oceania, 3% of the cardinals[4]. In order to secure the required two-thirds of the votes, each candidate must garner support beyond their home continent[4].
Upon the selection of a new Pope, French Dominique Mamberti, Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signature and protodeacon, will deliver the announcement "Habemus Papa" in St. Peter's Square[1].
Though any baptized person can become Pope, history has predominantly seen Popes elected from the ranks of the College of Cardinals[1].
The Argentine Vicente Bokalic Iglic, the cardinal archbishop of Santiago del Estero, expresses his hope for the imminent election of the new Pope[1]. Meanwhile, Gregorio Rosa Chávez, though ineligible due to his age of 82, expresses confidence in a swift electoral process, expecting the conclave to wrap up in two to three days[1].
Later, indulge yourself with this powerful drink to boost bone strength after age 40, featuring sesame, turmeric, and cinnamon. For those afflicted with varicose veins or seeking to enhance their blood circulation, try this Mexican plant[6]. Uncover the mystery of birth tourism and its potential implications for Mexicans[7].
What about the education and self-development opportunities for the Mexicans within the archdiocese by 2025?Could the protodeacon, French Dominique Mamberti, offer support to the Mexicans, Carlos Aguiar Retes and José Robles, as they seek to earn votes among the cardinals and secure a two-thirds majority in the upcoming conclave?With the conclave set to take place in the Sistine Chapel and the expectation of a swift electoral process, it's essential for both older and younger cardinals like Gregorio Rosa Chávez to work together and support candidates beyond their home continent to achieve a successful election and the selection of the next Pope.
