In the papal conclave, expectations and momentum matter
A man gives the last touch to a red drape wrapped around a column of the central lodge of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, Monday, May 5, 2025, before the conclave starting on May 7, where they will elect the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)
(RNS) — Jorge Bergoglio did better than expected on the first ballot and continued to gain votes on every ballot. He beat expectations and gained momentum.
