The Vatican officially announced on Monday that the conclave to elect the 267th Pope will commence on May 7, 2025, following the conclusion of the traditional Novemdiales—nine days of mourning Masses held for the eternal repose of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday.
The decision was finalised during the fifth General Congregation meeting held Monday morning at the Vatican, which brought together 180 cardinals from around the world to discuss preparations for the historic event. This gathering represents one of the final administrative steps before the cardinals enter the conclave to select the next leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.
Pope Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since March 2013, died on April 21 at the age of 88 after a pontificate that lasted just over 12 years. The Argentine-born pontiff was laid to rest on Saturday, April 26, following a solemn funeral Mass celebrated at St. Peter’s Basilica that drew religious leaders, heads of state, and mourners from across the globe.
According to Vatican protocol, the conclave must follow strict procedures established by centuries of tradition and more recent papal reforms. To successfully elect a new pope, the cardinal electors—those under the age of 80 who are eligible to vote—must achieve a two-thirds majority. The voting will take place through a series of secret ballots, with the famous white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney announcing when a new pontiff has been chosen.
“All election procedures will take place exclusively in the Sistine Chapel within the Vatican Apostolic Palace, which remains completely sealed off until the election is concluded,” the Vatican statement emphasised, highlighting the secretive nature of the proceedings. During this period, the cardinals will be sequestered from the outside world, staying in the Santa Marta residence within Vatican City, with no access to communication devices or media.
The upcoming conclave will mark the first papal election since 2013, when Francis himself was chosen following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
Judith Iyoh writes fashion, lifestyle and real estate investment.
