The Catholic Church is preparing for a transition period as cardinals from around the world are set to gather in Rome on May 7, 2025, to begin the conclave to elect Pope Francis’s successor.
This comes after Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni who made this announcement on Monday said the election for Pope Francis’s successor will begin after the conclusion of the ongoing mourning period.
Bruni said the papal conclave’s start date was agreed on during the fifth congregation of cardinals early Monday, attended by more than 180 cardinals.
Bruni also revealed that several cardinals spoke during the congregation, on issues including the Church and its relationship with the world, and how Pope Francis’s successor would need to be able to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
The Vatican spokesperson further revealed that aspecial mass is expected to take place on May 7, with the first votes to be cast in the afternoon of the same day.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that this centuries-old ritual, shrouded in secrecy, will see 135 cardinals from around the world convene in the Sistine Chapel to choose the next leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
Once the papal conclave begins, cardinals are cut off from the outside world. no phones, television, or internet.
It was gathered this is to ensure the process remains free from external influence.
The 135 electors, all under 80 years old, will then vote for the candidate of their choice.
Voting will take place twice daily, with ballots burned after each round. Black smoke signals no decision, while white smoke announces the election of a new pope.
A two-thirds majority is required, and if no candidate is chosen after three days, the cardinals may pause for a day of prayer.
