The Vatican announced that cardinals will officially begin the conclave on May 7 to elect the next leader of the Catholic Church, following the funeral of Pope Francis.
The decision was finalized on Monday during the first general congregation of cardinals since Pope Francis’ passing. These daily closed-door meetings, which will continue until the conclave begins, are focused on discussing the future of the Church and preparing for the election.
Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, with 135 set to participate. However, not all may be present. Cardinal Antonio Cañizares Llovera has already confirmed he will miss the election due to health issues, while Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, previously mired in controversy, has formally withdrawn his request to take part.
According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, over 180 cardinals have gathered in Rome, with just over 100 eligible to vote. He also noted that Cardinals Reinhard Marx, Luis Antonio Tagle, and Dominique Mamberti were chosen to assist Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo overseeing Vatican affairs during the vacancy.
Before voting begins inside the Sistine Chapel — which has already been closed to the public for preparations — the cardinal electors will participate in a special Mass, take an oath of secrecy, and begin casting ballots. A two-thirds majority is required to elect the new pope.
This upcoming conclave is expected to be one of the most diverse in Church history. With about 80% of the voting cardinals appointed by Pope Francis, many represent regions that had previously never had a cardinal, such as Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, and Mali.
Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 from a stroke and heart failure on Easter Monday, was laid to rest on Saturday at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, in accordance with his wishes for a simple burial. On Sunday, cardinals and mourners visited his tomb to pay their final respects.
