133 Cardinals Enter Sistine Chapel as Papal Conclave Officially Begins

The solemn ritual to elect the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church has officially commenced, as 133 cardinal-electors entered the Sistine Chapel under the iconic frescoes of Michelangelo on Wednesday afternoon.

According to a statement from the Vatican, the cardinals began their sacred procession at around 3:45 p.m. in the Pauline Chapel, walking in reverse order of precedence, a tradition that underscores humility and spiritual preparation. They entered the Sistine Chapel chanting the "Litany of the Saints", followed by the ancient hymn “Veni Creator Spiritus”, invoking the descent of the Holy Spirit to guide their decision.

“The ancient ritual to elect the Pope has officially begun,” the Vatican stated.

The Sacred Order of Procession

As detailed by the Vatican:

• The procession was led by a cross, followed by a choir and priest assistants to the Master of Ceremonies.

• The Secretary of the Conclave followed next, accompanied by the cardinal designated to deliver the opening meditation once the chapel is sealed.

• The cardinals-elect came next in strict hierarchical order: deacons, priests, and then bishops.

• The Master of Ceremonies brought up the rear, marking the official closure of the chapel and the beginning of the sacred conclave.

The voting process—shrouded in centuries-old tradition and secrecy—will now proceed behind closed doors. The conclave is expected to last several days, with ballots cast until one candidate secures the required two-thirds majority to become the new Pope.

A Church in Transition

This conclave follows the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 21 and was laid to rest at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore on April 26. His papacy was marked by advocacy for the marginalized, interfaith dialogue, and efforts to modernize the Church’s global mission.

The next pontiff will face complex challenges, including:

• Declining church attendance in the West

• Doctrinal divisions

• Global calls for reform

• The need to address abuse scandals

• Rising secularism and interreligious tensions

Millions of Catholics and global observers now wait in anticipation for the appearance of white smoke—the traditional sign that a new Pope has been elected.