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Ursuline students experience the conclave - No passport required!

Ursuline students experience the conclave - No passport required!

Pictured above: These Ursuline middle schoolers in Mrs. Coletti's Religious Studies class are learning about the global Catholic Church in a hands-on mock conclave complete with research, reflection, and maybe even a little white smoke.

by Shannon Dufresne


Ursuline Middle and High School Religious Studies students are stepping into the shoes of cardinals in a mock papal conclave to delve into issues surrounding Church leadership, global perspectives, and the qualities needed in the next pope.

As the world awaits the real election of the 267th pope following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, students in grades 6, 7, 9, and 10 are diving deep into the global heart of the Catholic Church through the unique and timely class project prepared by Religious Studies teachers, Mrs. Maureen Crowley, Mrs. Gabrielle Coletti, and Ms. Giovanna Scampone.

Designed to provide insight into the election process and the truly international nature of Church leadership, the project challenges students to take on the roles of real-life cardinals eligible to vote in the Vatican conclave, set to begin Wednesday, May 7, in the Sistine Chapel. Students will research and represent the 135 cardinals under the age of 80 who are eligible to vote, chosen at random.

Each student is assigned a papabile—a term for cardinals considered strong candidates to become pope—and prepares a slide presentation exploring their cardinal’s background. From birthplace and early life to major roles within the Church and potential future contributions, the students are analyzing what each candidate brings to the table—and why he might (or might not) be suited to lead the Catholic Church into a new era.

Students participate in a mock conclave and share their presentations during Religious Studies class.


“This project helps students reflect on the global reach of the Church and the qualities of leadership most needed in our world today,” explains Crowley. “They’re not just researching Church hierarchy—they’re thinking deeply about what kind of spiritual leader is needed in 2025 and beyond.”

They’re not just researching Church hierarchy—they’re thinking deeply about what kind of spiritual leader is needed in 2025 and beyond.”
- Mrs. Maureen Crowley, religious studies teacher

Presentations are rich with photos, videos, and sourced information, helping students understand the wide range of cultural, theological, and pastoral experiences represented in the College of Cardinals.

The project will culminate in a class conclave simulation, where students will vote as the cardinals themselves, continuing until one candidate secures the required two-thirds majority. Once their new “pope” is chosen, the class will eagerly watch Rome to see whether their elected candidate matches the one selected by the real conclave.

In an age when faith and leadership intersect with a rapidly changing world, Ursuline students are not only learning history—they’re stepping into it.

 

  • Faith & Spirituality

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