Padre’s Points to Ponder – 5/2/25
Be on the Watch for White Smoke!
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
The Church is about to begin one of her most ancient and sacred processes: the conclave, the solemn gathering of cardinals to elect a new pope.
The word conclave comes from the Latin cum clave, meaning “with a key,” referring to the practice of locking the cardinals away during the election process. This tradition, dating back to the 13th century, ensures prayerful discernment, free from outside influence, as the cardinals seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, and they gather in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. The process begins with the “Extra omnes!”—Latin for “Everyone out!”—which clears the chapel of all but the electors. The cardinals then participate in Mass and prayers, seeking unity and divine wisdom.
Voting takes place in secret, with each cardinal writing his chosen name on a paper ballot. After each round of voting, the ballots are burned. If no pope is elected, a chemical compound is added to produce black smoke, signaling to the world that the Church is still discerning. When a new pope is chosen by a two-thirds majority, white smoke rises, and bells ring out across Rome. It is a moment of immense joy and spiritual renewal for the Church. If we can get someone over to the controls of our bell system, we will peel our bells in union with those of Rome to celebrate the new pope.
Soon after, the new pope appears on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and is introduced with the traditional words: “Habemus Papam!”—“We have a pope!” He then offers his first apostolic blessing, Urbi et Orbi (“To the City and to the World”).
Let us remember: the conclave is not a political campaign, but a spiritual discernment. The Holy Spirit is at work, guiding the Church through her shepherds, continuing the unbroken line of Apostolic Succession from St. Peter himself.
Please join me in praying that this conclave to begin May 7 will be a time of great grace and unity for the Church, and that the chosen successor of St. Peter will be a holy and courageous pastor for our times.
Praised be Jesus Christ, alleluia! Now and forever, alleluia!
All you holy saints of God, pray for us!
Peace in Christ,
Fr. Michael Silloway
Pastor