The Vatican has announced that the conclave to select a new pope will begin on May 7, following the death of Pope Francis at age 88. Around 130 cardinals are eligible to vote, but only those under 80 will participate in the secret ballot, requiring a two-thirds majority to elect the new leader. Cardinals have been gathering to discuss important issues such as the church’s relationship with other religions, sexual abuse, and evangelization, as well as the qualities needed in the next pope. The conclave will be held in the Sistine Chapel, and preparations include installing ballot burners, with black or white smoke signaling the voting outcome. The cardinals will stay at Casa Santa Marta, with Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica preceding the voting process, ensuring the electoral procedure remains isolated and efficient.

The Vatican has set May 7 as the start date for the conclave to elect a new pope, following Pope Francis's death at age 88. Approximately 130 cardinals are eligible to vote, but only those under 80 will participate in the secret ballot, needing a two-thirds majority to elect a successor.

Cardinals have begun discussions on major challenges facing the church, including its global relationships, evangelization efforts, and handling of sexual abuse cases, while considering the qualities needed in the new pope.

The conclave will take place in the Sistine Chapel, and preparations include installing ballot burners to produce smoke signals that indicate the voting result: black smoke for no consensus and white smoke for a successful election.

On May 7, the conclave proceedings will start with a Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica before the cardinals enter the Sistine Chapel to cast their votes, in a process designed to ensure isolation and focus.

Most cardinals will stay in Casa Santa Marta during the conclave, a residence built under Pope John Paul II to replace previous arrangements, with assurances from Vatican officials that there will be ample room despite a large number of cardinals appointed by Pope Francis.