The Vatican has officially declared that a conclave will be held on 7 May to elect a new pope, marking a significant moment in the Catholic Church's history after the recent passing of Pope Francis at 88 years old. This clandestine meeting, set to take place in the iconic Sistine Chapel, will involve around 135 cardinals from various nations. The conclave follows the late pope's funeral, attended by numerous dignitaries and thousands of mourners in St Peter's Square.
New Papal Election Conclave Set for 7 May After Pope Francis' Passing
New Papal Election Conclave Set for 7 May After Pope Francis' Passing
Vatican officials announce the upcoming conclave for the election of a new pope will commence on 7 May amidst global attention following the death of Pope Francis.
The duration of the conclave remains uncertain, but previous gatherings to elect popes in 2005 and 2013 lasted only two days. Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni indicated that the cardinals will first partake in a solemn mass at St Peter's Basilica before gathering in the Sistine Chapel for their deliberations. Once inside, the participating cardinals will be isolated from the outside world until a new pope is confirmed.
Voting will proceed according to protocol, beginning with one round on the first afternoon, and later expanding to four votes per day. A two-thirds majority is necessary for the election, which may prompt the cardinals to take periodic breaks for prayer, particularly if no consensus is reached by the third day. The voting outcome will be publicly signaled through the smoke emitted from a chimney, with black smoke indicating further voting rounds, while white smoke signifies the election of a new pope.
Attendees of Pope Francis' funeral included global leaders and royal figures. His memorial services were marked by emotional tributes and large crowds celebrating his life and contributions. Estimations placed around 140,000 people lining the streets of Rome, where the pope's casket was carried past renowned landmarks before arriving at his final resting place, Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica. Images of his tomb, with a solitary white rose resting on the stone inscribed with his papal name, have since been released, encapsulating a poignant moment for the Catholic community and the world.
As the conclave approaches, many are left to ponder who will succeed Pope Francis as the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
Voting will proceed according to protocol, beginning with one round on the first afternoon, and later expanding to four votes per day. A two-thirds majority is necessary for the election, which may prompt the cardinals to take periodic breaks for prayer, particularly if no consensus is reached by the third day. The voting outcome will be publicly signaled through the smoke emitted from a chimney, with black smoke indicating further voting rounds, while white smoke signifies the election of a new pope.
Attendees of Pope Francis' funeral included global leaders and royal figures. His memorial services were marked by emotional tributes and large crowds celebrating his life and contributions. Estimations placed around 140,000 people lining the streets of Rome, where the pope's casket was carried past renowned landmarks before arriving at his final resting place, Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica. Images of his tomb, with a solitary white rose resting on the stone inscribed with his papal name, have since been released, encapsulating a poignant moment for the Catholic community and the world.
As the conclave approaches, many are left to ponder who will succeed Pope Francis as the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
