Overview

• Pope Francis's funeral was held on April 26, concluding the nine-day mourning period known as the novendiales.
• Cardinals are meeting to finalize the start date of the conclave, which must occur between May 6 and May 11 according to Church rules.
• Only 135 cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the conclave, which will take place in the Sistine Chapel under strict secrecy protocols.
• The election process requires a two-thirds majority to select the new pope, with black and white smoke signaling voting outcomes to the public.
• Cardinal Kevin Farrell, as the camerlengo, is overseeing burial rites, sealing the late pope's chambers, and organizing the conclave logistics.