In the thrilling journey toConclave’splot twist ending, Cardinal Lawrence navigates the disparate views of several candidates.
An important detail is thatcardinals aren’t allowed to write their own name.
A cardinal is required to receive a majority of two-thirds of all votes to become the new pope.
In this case, the conclave resumes, with two to four more votes held per day.
The longest papal conclave ever took place from November 29, 1268 to 1271, lasting 34 months.
In the end, Pope Gregory X was elected.
Custom image by Ana Nieves
Generally speaking, roughly 120 participants are expected to show up, making the two-thirds majority about 80.
In 2013’s election of Pope Francis, 115 cardinals attended.
Some cardinals are also given special roles within the election.
Cardinal Lawrence leads the secretive papal election at the Vatican, where he uncovers a conspiracy and a secret that could destabilize the Church’s foundation as leaders gather from around the world.
This includes summoning the cardinals for the conclave and overseeing the process.
There have been nine cases in history where the dean was elected as the new pope.
Aside from the dean, nine cardinals are chosen at random to serve various roles in the election process.
Can Only Cardinals Become The Pope?
However, there’s no rule that states that they’re the only ones allowed to be elected.
It is not until the mourning period is over that the conclave process will begin.
This is never explained in the film for reasons of time, Im sure.