But in modern times, papal conclaves have skewed much shorter: The longest conclave in the 20th century lasted five days. And in 2013, Pope Francis was elected in a little over 24 hours.

A new pope has been elected — but there's a lot that happens before we see him for the time Becca Longmire is a digital news writer-reporter at PEOPLE. She has been working at PEOPLE since 2024 ...

A papal conclave, the election of a new pope, tends to begin 15-20 days after a papal vacancy. Black or white smoke indicates each day's decision.

The word itself predates Christianity, but the conclave with its secretive deliberations and ancient trappings still captures the public's curiosity.

Behind the name Pope Leo and its ties to social justice 01:59. Cardinal Robert Prevost has been announced as the new pontiff and has chosen the name Pope Leo XIV.. There are no written rules or ...

The pomp and ceremony of a papal conclave — the flutter of cardinals gathering in their red robes, the crowds at the Vatican awaiting the white smoke that proceeds the proclamation from a ...

The death of Pope Francis has led to a time of mourning for Catholics around the world. In highly-Catholic New Orleans, Francis' humble style and his focus on the poor won him early fans when he ...

Pope Leo XIV is marking a feast day as the Vatican launches a new campaign to boost donations from the faithful. Leo ...

The funera l must take place four to six days after the pope's death. For Pope Francis, it took place Saturday, April 26, in St. Peter's Square. Most recent popes have asked to be buried beneath ...

A papal conclave will be held following the death of Pope Francis. By NBC Staff • Published April 21, 2025 • Updated on April 21, 2025 at 8:11 am BOOKMARKER ...

Like the other ceremonies and traditions that accompany the advent of a new pope, his newly chosen name will be imbued with centuries of Catholic history and dissected for its many layers of meaning.

Pope Francis' death kicks off the traditional papal conclave process for picking a new pope. Here's what to know about it and what the smoke means.