The Vatican announced on Monday that the conclave to elect the next pope will begin on 7th May. The decision came after scores of cardinals gathered to determine when the cardinal-electors would meet in the Sistine Chapel to choose a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away last week at the age of 88.
Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to participate in the secret ballot. Out of the 252 current cardinals, more than 130, most appointed by Pope Francis, have voting rights. To be elected, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority. During the conclave, cardinals are secluded and may not leave until a new Pope is chosen, except under exceptional circumstances.
According to Vatican protocol, the conclave must begin between 15 and 20 days after the Pope’s death. Historically, Pope Francis himself was elected in just two days during the last conclave in 2013.
As tradition dictates, onlookers will watch the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel for smoke signals. Black smoke indicates no consensus has been reached, while white smoke signals the successful election of a new Pope.
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