A historic conclave is set to begin Wednesday at the Vatican, potentially answering the burning question: Who will be the next pope?
The future of the Catholic Church will be decided by 133 cardinals — the voting body tasked with electing the next pope. To be chosen, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority, which means at least 89 votes.
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After each round of voting, smoke will rise from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. Black smoke signals that no candidate has received the necessary support, while white smoke means a new pope has been elected.
While technically any baptized male is eligible, tradition dating back to the 1300s has held that the pope is chosen from among the cardinals.
With 10 American cardinals participating, the United States brings notable influence to the process. Still, the prospect of an American pope remains uncertain.
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"I would love to have an American, but I've always heard that the strongest country — they aren't going to vote for a pope from the strongest superpower," said Fr. David Daly, a leader in the Legionaries of Christ in Rome.
Once a new pope is selected, he will appear dressed in white on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first blessing to the faithful gathered in the square.
Historically, the longest conclave lasted more than three years in the 13th century. By contrast, Pope Francis was elected in just two days and five rounds of voting.
