Overview

• Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 early Monday morning, initiating a 15–20 day mourning period before the conclave begins.
• Preparations are underway for 137 cardinal electors to travel to Rome and gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next pope.
• The conclave follows strict protocols, including sequestering cardinals without outside communication and requiring an oath of secrecy.
• A candidate must secure a two-thirds majority of votes, with results signaled by black or white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney.
• The newly elected pope will be publicly announced from St. Peter’s Basilica with the traditional proclamation, 'Habemus Papam!'