Mon May 05 10:51:27 UTC 2025: ## Diverse Cardinals Begin Conclave to Elect New Pope
**Vatican City, May 5, 2025** – The Conclave to elect the next Pope began today, with 133 cardinals from 71 countries gathered in the Sistine Chapel. This marks the most geographically diverse Conclave in history, reflecting the global reach of the Catholic Church. While there are no rules dictating how cardinals vote based on nationality, their diverse backgrounds and experiences are expected to significantly influence the election process.
The 133 eligible voters represent a range of perspectives, from the head of the Vatican’s liturgy office to archbishops ministering in war-torn Syria. The countries with the highest representation include Italy (17), the United States (10), and Brazil (7), followed by several nations with 4 or 5 electors each. Europe has the largest number of electors (52), followed by Asia (including the Middle East) with 23, Africa with 17, North America with 16, and Oceania with 4.
A two-thirds majority (89 votes) is required to elect the new Pope. The diverse backgrounds of the electors ensure that a wide range of concerns – from liturgical practices to the challenges facing the Church in various regions – will be considered in the selection process.
First Piper 