The Centuries-Old Papal Election Ritual: A Blend of Tradition and Intrigue

The papal election follows a centuries-old tradition. Nine cardinals are randomly selected for specific roles: three scrutineers oversee the voting, three infirmarii collect votes from the sick, and three revisers verify the results. Cardinals cast their ballots in order of seniority. Ballots are meticulously checked and counted, ensuring the number matches the electors. The scrutineers then read each name aloud, sewing the ballots together. Finally, the color of the smoke from the burning ballots signals the world whether a new pope has been elected.