Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan from New York has some key advice for those who will attend their first papal conclave – “Bring a book!” In an interview as cardinals prepared to enter Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City, Dolan remarked on the often long and quiet proceedings. During the conclave, cardinal electors gather in the iconic Sistine Chapel and must first take an oath of secrecy before voting by secret ballot to elect the next pope.
Voting sessions can extend from one to several hours, leading to extended periods of silence while each cardinal carefully completes their ballot. Dolan pointed out that it's not the most exhilarating experience to watch, referencing his own presence at the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013. To engage himself during the waiting periods, he's packing a biography of Michelangelo, appreciating the serenity of the Sistine Chapel, which features masterpieces like "The Last Judgment."
