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“Conclave” is a film by Edward Berger based on the novel by Robert Harris. It opened in German cinemas on 21 November 2024. Ralph Fiennes plays Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, the Dean of the College of Cardinals. After the death of the pope, he has to lead the election of the successor. His conduct shows the Quality of Servanthood.
A task he did not want
Situation
Lawrence wanted to give up his office as dean even before the pope died. The pope refused his resignation. Now Lawrence has to organise the conclave, although he has doubts about the Church. He takes on the task conscientiously all the same.
Link to the quality
Servanthood does not begin with an appetite for a role, but with the question of what is needed right now. Those who only lead when it suits them serve themselves. Reliability shows in the tasks you did not choose.
Voicing doubt openly
Situation
At the start of the conclave, Lawrence gives a homily. He makes the case for enduring uncertainty and warns, in essence, against certainty as the enemy of unity. Some cardinals read the speech as a bid for the papacy.
Link to the quality
Those who serve do not have to appear infallible. Inner security shows in naming your own doubts without letting go of the task. That makes a leader credible, even if it can be misunderstood.
Protecting the process
Situation
Lawrence learns that Cardinal Tremblay is said to have bought votes. He enters the sealed rooms of the late pope and finds evidence of it. Together with Sister Agnes, he makes the matter known to the College. That ends Tremblay’s candidacy.
Link to the quality
Servanthood does not mean pleasing everyone. Lawrence serves the process and, with it, everyone who trusts in a clean result. Leaders have to put uncomfortable facts on the table, even if that makes them enemies.
His own ambition
Situation
Lawrence initially supports Cardinal Bellini. Over the course of the ballots, he receives votes himself. In the end, he intends to vote for himself. At that moment, an explosion shakes the Sistine Chapel. In the end, Cardinal Benítez is elected, and Lawrence supports the decision.
Link to the quality
Even servant leaders know the temptation of power. What matters is whether they put the outcome above their own position. Those who can let go when someone else is chosen have understood what they are there for.
Key takeaways
Key lessons
- Take responsibility even when you did not choose the task.
- Voice doubts openly instead of faking certainty.
- Protect fair processes, even if it gets you into trouble.
- Check honestly when your own ambition is having its say.
- Support decisions that do not go in your favour.
Summary
Cardinal Lawrence leads without seeking the office for himself. He keeps the process clean, names his doubts and exposes misconduct. The film also shows his temptation, and that makes him credible. Here, servanthood means: the cause stands above the person.