A layman’s A-Z guide to papal election terms

When a pope dies or resigns, the Catholic Church gathers to choose his successor in a highly structured and deeply symbolic process known as a conclave. Here’s a straightforward, alphabetical guide to help you navigate the unique language of this ancient tradition:

A key type of papal document that sets the rules for papal elections, like Universi Dominici Gregis (1996) and Normas Nonnullas (2013), which currently guide the process.

The physical paper each cardinal uses to cast his vote for the new pope. Ballots are burned after each voting session, producing the famous black or white smoke.

From the Latin cum clave (meaning “with a key”), this refers to the locked gathering of cardinal-electors in the Sistine Chapel to choose a new pope.

The senior cardinal among the electors, who presides over the conclave but cannot vote if he is over 80.

Cardinals under the age of 80 who are eligible to vote in the conclave. The number of electors is this conclave adds up to 133.

Italian for “smoke.” The color of the smoke signals the result of the vote: black for no decision, white for a successful election.

Meetings held before the conclave begins, where all cardinals (including those over 80) discuss the state of the Church and the needs of the next pope.

Latin for we have a pope. This is the traditional announcement made from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica once a new pope has been elected.

Latin for in the heart. A pope can name a cardinal in secret if revealing the name would endanger the individual or their ministry.

A phrase meaning by divine law. It reflects the belief that the authority of the papacy comes from Christ himself, not just human decision.

A ceremonial greeting shared among the cardinals after the new pope accepts his election.

The required majority to elect a pope. Currently set at a two-thirds vote among the cardinal-electors. This year that will be 89 votes.

Upon accepting his election, the new pope chooses a regnal name, often inspired by a previous pope or saint.

The official liturgical guide for the conclave’s ceremonies, including the Veni Creator Spiritus hymn sung at the beginning of the voting process.

The senior cardinal deacon, who traditionally announces Habemus Papam from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The minimum number of cardinal-electors required to proceed with the conclave. Currently, two-thirds of the electors must be present.

The small room next to the Sistine Chapel where the newly elected pope dons his papal vestments for the first time. It’s named for the overwhelming emotion many new popes reportedly feel at this moment.

The formal process of casting and counting ballots in the conclave.

The handing over of the symbol, referring to the moment when the new pope is vested in the papal garments.

The hymn sung by the cardinal-electors as they prepare to vote, invoking the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

The signal that a pope has been elected. Created by burning the ballots with a chemical additive in the Sistine Chapel stove.

The small, white skullcap worn by the pope, symbolizing his role as the Bishop of Rome.