The Papal Conclave

White Smoke rises on this decadent collection of dishes.

7/2/20251 min read

person wearing white cap looking down under cloudy sky during daytime
person wearing white cap looking down under cloudy sky during daytime

This was a big meal and I think each dish deserves its own day out on the Loggia of the Blessings. That's the balcony where the Pope appears. I had to google it. So forgive this post for the lack of recipes. They are coming soon.

Anyway, the story is this: My friend sent me a photo of the leaked menu for Pope Leo XIV's post conclave dinner.

What comes next makes total sense:

Friend: We should make this for Sunday dinner.
Me: This looks fun.
Friend: By we, I mean...


I'll link each separate recipe and blog post here.

There are pictures of each dish above.

We capped the night off with a brief power point that explained how the conclave works, the College of Cardinals, all about Pope Leo and the other front runners.

As we discussed and asked questions, I realized that this is one of my favorite things about Sunday dinner. Everyone is gathered round the table, unplugged from their phones, and just enjoying one another's company and, sometimes, expertise. It's a time to share current events and thoughts and feelings, from the inane to the profound. We've workshopped cover letters and resumes, premiered video projects, and even had a table read of a new script. Its often slathered in hope and good feelings. Consolation and connection.

I hope your Sunday table is cloaked in the same warmth and playfulness this weekend.

4 Courses, 1 cocktail, 2 days of prep, 1 new pope. And a powerpoint.