New York: when to watch the 2025 conclave and how to watch the Papal election live
As cardinals gather in total secrecy to elect the next pope, millions around the world, including viewers in New York, are tuning in to witness history unfold in real time, with the iconic white smoke set to signal the dawn of a new papacy.
As the Catholic Church prepares to elect the successor to Pope Francis, New Yorkers and millions around the globe are tuning in to witness the historic 2025 Papal Conclave. The event officially begins on Wednesday, May 7 at 4:30 p.m. Rome time (10:30 a.m. ET), and viewers in New York can catch the entire process live on multiple platforms.
Prior to the conclave, the "Pro Eligendo Pontifice" Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. in Rome (4:00 a.m. ET), led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. This special Mass serves as a spiritual start to the papal election and will be open to the public. Afterward, 133 cardinal electors under the age of 80 will enter the Sistine Chapel for the secluded voting process.
How and where to watch the 2025 Papal Conclave Live from New York
The conclave will continue in strict isolation, where cardinals are prohibited from communicating with the outside world. A candidate must receive a two-thirds majority, or at least 89 votes, to be declared pope. The world will know a decision has been reached when white smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel — a centuries-old signal that a new pope has been chosen.
For New Yorkers and viewers across the U.S., the event will be broadcast live on CatholicTV, CBS News, and EWTN, among others. These networks will provide real-time coverage, expert commentary, and translation services in both English and Spanish, ensuring widespread accessibility for all audiences.
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Global impact of the 2025 Papal Conclave: what it means for New York and the World
The significance of the conclave extends beyond Vatican walls. As one of the most-watched religious events in the world, it not only represents the continuity of Catholic tradition but also carries global political and social implications. The outcome will shape the Church’s moral leadership and stance on key issues affecting millions worldwide.
Cardinals gathered in solemn silence as white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, announcing to the world—and to New York—that a new pope has been elected. Photo: AFP
From cathedrals to living rooms, the eyes of New York — and the world — will be fixed on Vatican City. As the white smoke rises, history will be made, and a new chapter for the Catholic Church will begin.
