135 cardinals will convene in the Sistine Chapel to elect the new Supreme Pontiff amidst a solemn atmosphere following the funeral of Pope Francis.
**Vatican Announces Date for Secret Cardinal Conclave to Choose New Pope**
**Vatican Announces Date for Secret Cardinal Conclave to Choose New Pope**
In light of the passing of Pope Francis, the Vatican has scheduled the conclave for 7 May.
The Vatican has declared that a conclave to elect a new pope will commence on 7 May, following the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88 on Easter Monday. This private gathering will see approximately 135 cardinals from around the globe meet within the iconic Sistine Chapel, a setting known for its historical significance in the papal election process.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni has confirmed that the cardinals will first participate in a solemn mass at St Peter's Basilica. After the mass, those eligible to vote will enter the Sistine Chapel for the confidential voting sessions. In this conclave, cardinals will be cut off from outside communication until a new pope has been elected.
The process is somewhat unpredictable, and while there is no set timeframe to elect a new pope, previous conclaves in 2005 and 2013 wrapped up in just two days. The election requires a two-thirds majority, and the cardinals will have the opportunity to vote up to four times each day. If a decision has not been reached by the end of the third day, they may take a day for prayer.
The tradition of signaling the election results with smoke from a chimney will be observed, with black smoke indicating more voting is required and white smoke announcing the selection of a new pope.
The passing of Pope Francis prompted a grand funeral attended by world leaders and a significant public turnout. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re delivered a homily reflecting on the pope's impactful legacy. Thousands lined the streets of Rome to pay their respects, watching as the Pope's coffin was processed through the city towards its final resting place at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica. Following the ceremony, poignant images of his tomb were shared, featuring a solitary white rose and a spotlight illuminating a crucifix, encapsulating the profound moment of grief and remembrance.
