As the Vatican prepares for a significant transition in leadership following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at 88, the conclave to select his successor is set to begin on May 7.
Conclave to Elect New Pope Set for May 7, Following Pope Francis' Death
Conclave to Elect New Pope Set for May 7, Following Pope Francis' Death
The Vatican announces the commencement of a conclave on May 7, where 135 cardinals will gather to elect the next pope after the passing of Pope Francis.
Cardinals from around the globe will convene in a secret conclave within the historic Sistine Chapel, marking a momentous occasion in the Catholic Church's leadership. The conclave is scheduled to initiate following a solemn mass at St. Peter's Basilica, with the voting taking place among approximately 135 eligible cardinals.
The election process unfolds in secrecy, commencing on the evening of May 7, although prior conclaves have historically completed within a couple of days. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni indicated that at least one round of voting will occur on the first afternoon. Following that, cardinals may vote multiple times daily until they achieve a two-thirds majority necessary for electing the next pope.
During the conclave, communication with the outside world is strictly prohibited. Cardinals will mark their ballots with the phrase "I elect as Supreme Pontiff," demonstrating the simplicity of the voting procedure. If, by the end of the third day, no consensus is achieved, the cardinals will take a pause for prayer before continuing the election.
Outside the chapel, observers will keenly await the signal of smoke emerging from the chimney: black smoke indicates that voting will continue, while white smoke announces the successful election of a new pope.
Earlier, thousands attended the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square, where dignitaries from around the world paid their respects. The event was marked by moving tributes, including hymns broadcast through loudspeakers and a commemorative procession witnessed by approximately 140,000 mourners, highlighting the profound impact of the late pope on both the faithful and the global community.
In the days leading up to the conclave, the legacy of Pope Francis is expected to be a significant influence on the voting cardinals as they contemplate the direction of the Catholic Church in a rapidly changing world.
