Separating fact from fiction: What really happens during a papal conclave?
The process itself, as outlined by the apostolic constitution, is elaborate and systematic. In the “scrutiny” or balloting phase, individual cardinal electors must put their ballots in the assigned receptacles placed before the altar of Sistine Chapel, while reciting the oath aloud: “I call as my witness Christ the Lord who will be my judge, that my vote is given to the one who before God I think should be elected.”