Following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, preparations are underway for the conclave to elect his successor, set to begin on May 7 at the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. Over 130 cardinals will participate in the traditional ceremony, casting votes in near-total silence and anonymity until a new pope is selected. Although the conclave could have started on May 5, cardinals opted for extra time for informal discussions, including those over 80 who won't participate in the voting process. A two-thirds majority is necessary to elect the new pontiff, with discussions and betting odds already circulating regarding potential candidates. This significant ecclesiastical event underscores the solemnity and secrecy associated with the election of the new leader of the Catholic Church.

The conclave to elect the next pope will commence on May 7 at the Sistine Chapel, following Pope Francis's death on April 21, requiring over 130 cardinals to participate.

Cardinals engage in a traditional, solemn voting process conducted in near-total silence and anonymity until a new pontiff is selected, reflecting the gravity and secrecy of the event.

Initially set for May 5, the conclave's start was postponed to allow informal discussions among cardinals, including those over age 80, who will not partake in the conclave.

To elect a new pope, a two-thirds majority is required, adding to the complexity and significance of the decision-making process among the church leaders.

Interest in the conclave is heightened by early betting odds and discussions on potential successors, highlighting the global anticipation surrounding the appointment of a new pope.

The upcoming conclave emphasizes the intricate traditions and protocols of the Catholic Church, as it prepares to choose a new spiritual leader.

This ecclesiastical process is a critical event in the Vatican, drawing attention from both church members and the international community.

The search for the new Pope will begin soon.

The conclave to determine the next leader of the Church will begin on May 7 at the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City.

More than 130 cardinals are set to pick a new pontiff.

The church leaders participate in the traditional ceremony in near-total silence, voting in anonymity through various rounds until a pope is eventually selected.

Keep reading to find out more…

The conclave could have opened as early as May 5, but the cardinals gave themselves extra time to speak in more informal sessions that include cardinals over age 80, who will not be allowed into the Sistine Chapel once the conclave begins, according to AP.

They will next meet on Tuesday morning (April 29).

A two-thirds majority is required before a successor to Pope Francis can be named. He passed away on April 21. Find out the cause of his passing.

See who are the early front-runners in betting odds to become the next Pope, and how the voting process works.