Historic Transition: Vatican Confirms Date for Conclave to Elect Next Pope

The Vatican has formally announced that a secret conclave to elect the next pope will begin on May 7, marking a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 on Easter Monday.

The announcement comes just days after Pope Francis’ funeral at St. Peter’s Basilica, an event that drew world leaders, religious dignitaries, and millions of mourners from across the globe. Now, attention shifts to the Sistine Chapel, where tradition, secrecy, and spiritual deliberation converge to shape the future of the Church.

What Happens Next: The Conclave Process Explained

The conclave will gather 135 cardinal electors from around the world, each of whom will participate in one of the most solemn—and secretive—rituals in global religious leadership. The election process is guided by centuries-old protocol designed to eliminate external influence and maintain the sanctity of the decision.

According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the process begins with a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, attended by all cardinals. Following the mass, those eligible to vote will process into the Sistine Chapel—where they will remain isolated until a new pope is elected.

Once the conclave begins, cardinals are strictly forbidden from communicating with the outside world. Devices are prohibited, and security protocols are intensified to ensure total secrecy. No media access is granted. The ritualistic sealing of the Sistine Chapel marks the beginning of an intense and prayerful deliberation.

How the Voting Works

Voting begins with a single round on the afternoon of the first day. From then on, the cardinals conduct up to four votes per day—two in the morning and two in the afternoon—until a clear result is reached.

To be elected pope, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority of the votes. While the conclave’s duration is unpredictable, recent history offers perspective: the previous two conclaves, held in 2005 and 2013, each concluded within two days.

Global Eyes on the Sistine Chapel

The next pope will inherit not only spiritual authority over more than 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide, but also a Church navigating issues ranging from interfaith relations and modern doctrine to political neutrality and internal reform.

As the world watches the chimney above the Sistine Chapel for the symbolic white smoke that signals a successful election, speculation grows over which cardinal will emerge as the Church’s next spiritual leader.

With just days until the conclave begins, all eyes turn to Rome—for a decision that could redefine the direction of the Vatican for decades to come.