Overview

• The Vatican has announced that the conclave to elect the next pope will begin on May 7, 2025, following preparatory meetings among cardinals.
• Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, was buried in a private ceremony at the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Majeure, where thousands of pilgrims now visit his tomb daily.
• The conclave will involve 135 cardinal electors under the age of 80, who will gather in the Sistine Chapel for secret ballots until a new pope is chosen.
• During the nine-day mourning period, public commemorations and daily services continue at St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing large crowds from around the world.
• Experts highlight the unpredictable nature of the conclave, with cardinals divided over the future direction of the Church amid global scrutiny.