The Vatican has confirmed a secret conclave will commence on May 7, where 135 cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope, following the passing of Pope Francis at 88. The election may take varying lengths of time, reminiscent of swift previous conclaves, with cardinals set to begin with a solemn mass at St Peter's Basilica before entering the chapel without outside communication. Voting procedures include multiple rounds until a candidate receives a two-thirds majority, with the world waiting for either black or white smoke signaling the outcome.
Conclave Set for New Pope Election Following Pope Francis's Passing
Conclave Set for New Pope Election Following Pope Francis's Passing
Vatican announces details for the upcoming conclave on May 7 to elect the successor of the late Pope Francis.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, preparations are underway for a significant transition in the Vatican. The conclave, a traditional assembly of cardinals, will take place in the historic Sistine Chapel starting May 7, as revealed by Vatican officials. This follows the late pope's funeral on Easter Monday, which saw dignitaries and a massive crowd in attendance, honoring his legacy. The election process will be closely observed as cardinals engage in a strictly confidential voting protocol, with outcomes communicated through the iconic chimneys of the chapel. The anticipation builds as the religious community and the public alike await the emergence of the next Supreme Pontiff.
The conclave process commences with cardinals gathering in mass, after which they will cast their votes under strict silence until a new pope is determined. Voting begins on the first afternoon but may continue for several days, including potential pauses for prayer if no decision is reached by the third day. The iconic smoke signals—black for further voting and white for a new pope—will alert the world to the conclave's progress. The funeral of Pope Francis was a profound event, drawing thousands to the streets for the procession and culminating with a poignant homage at his grave marked by a simple white rose.
In the heart of Vatican City, the stage is set for a significant moment in Catholic history as the Church prepares for a new leader during this transition, marked by reverence and solemnity.
The conclave process commences with cardinals gathering in mass, after which they will cast their votes under strict silence until a new pope is determined. Voting begins on the first afternoon but may continue for several days, including potential pauses for prayer if no decision is reached by the third day. The iconic smoke signals—black for further voting and white for a new pope—will alert the world to the conclave's progress. The funeral of Pope Francis was a profound event, drawing thousands to the streets for the procession and culminating with a poignant homage at his grave marked by a simple white rose.
In the heart of Vatican City, the stage is set for a significant moment in Catholic history as the Church prepares for a new leader during this transition, marked by reverence and solemnity.
