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4d ago

Vatican Conclave Set to Begin May 7 with Cardinal Parolin as Leading Candidate

133 cardinal electors from 71 countries will gather in the Sistine Chapel under strict rules to choose the successor to Pope Francis, with a decision expected within days.

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Overview

  • The conclave will commence on May 7, 2025, with 133 cardinals under the age of 80 participating in the election of the next pope.
  • Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State and close collaborator of Pope Francis, is widely regarded as the top candidate for the papacy.
  • For the first time, the College of Cardinals has no European majority, reflecting Pope Francis's efforts to diversify Church leadership during his 12-year tenure.
  • Experts predict the conclave will last three to four days, with discussions already underway to identify the Church's future direction and challenges.
  • During the sede vacante, the Camerlengo oversees daily operations of the Holy See while the College of Cardinals manages ordinary Church affairs without enacting new laws or doctrines.