Pope Crave: A Social Media Phenomenon Covering the 2024 Papal Conclave
This article contains major spoilers for the 2024 film Conclave.
The Story Behind Pope Crave
Susan Bin, who identifies as a non-Catholic, has found herself at the forefront of papal news reporting through her social media account, Pope Crave. Although she attended mass only once, her academic background in fine arts and art history has cultivated her interest in the Catholic Church, especially its art and history.
Engagement with Papal Affairs
Bin’s deep dive into the Catholic world was sparked by her enthusiasm for the Oscar-winning film Conclave, a story centered around the complex political dynamics among cardinals during the papal election. “I did not like it a normal amount,” she quips, reflecting her passionate engagement with the film and its themes.
A New Kind of Fandom
In late 2023, amid her job as an election clerk in Collin County, Texas, the political backdrop of Conclave became a source of solace for Bin. This inspired her to start the account, eventually launching @ClubConcrave, or Pope Crave, which began as a promotional tool for the accompanying fan zine, From the Crooked Timber of Humanity. The zine garnered contributions from multiple creators and prioritized themes of human rights, raising $75,000 for various charities.
Breaking News in Real Time
As Bin’s social media presence grew, her team quickly rallied to cover the papal conclave following the death of Pope Francis. When the pope passed away on April 21, 2024, she and her collaborators monitored the Vatican’s live smoke updates to report on the election of the next pope.
Swift Reporting with a Twist
Bin’s proactive approach included designing unofficial press credentials for supporters positioned at Vatican City, showcasing the grassroots nature of their operation. When she received insider information hinting at the conclave’s result, she successfully announced the election of the new pope before mainstream media outlets. Her tweet stating, “HOLY SMOKE WE GOT A POPE,” resonated widely, earning the account recognition as a leading news source.
The Role of Community
As Bin navigated the complexities of her newfound role, she acknowledged the challenges that lay ahead, including the responsibility to accurately report on Cardinal Robert Prevost’s unexpected election as the first American pope. The community surrounding Pope Crave is highly dynamic, discussing intricate relationships between identity, faith, and the church.
A Broader Perspective on Faith
“Everything is political,” Bin asserts as she reflects on the implications of Prevost’s papacy within the current political climate. With nearly 100,000 followers, Pope Crave has fostered discussions that extend well beyond mere celebrity. It allows individuals to explore their connections to faith and the church in a meaningful way.