Conclave to choose new Pope starts May 7 – Vatican

The Vatican announced today that the conclave to elect a new pope will officially begin on May 7, following the death of Pope Benedict XVII earlier this month.

Cardinals from around the world are already making their way to Rome, where they will gather in the Sistine Chapel under strict secrecy to choose the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The election comes at a critical time for the Church, as it faces challenges ranging from declining membership in parts of the world to growing calls for reforms.

In a brief statement issued by the Vatican Press Office, officials confirmed that all necessary preparations have been completed, and the College of Cardinals is scheduled to convene on May 6 for preliminary meetings known as General Congregations. These discussions allow cardinals to reflect on the state of the Church and the qualities needed in the next pope before the formal voting begins the following day.

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Pope Benedict XVII passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a brief illness, marking the end of a nearly 10-year papacy characterized by efforts to modernize Church operations and expand interfaith dialogue. His death has prompted mourning among Catholics worldwide, alongside hope for a new chapter under fresh leadership.

According to tradition, the conclave will continue until a cardinal secures a two-thirds majority vote. Once elected, the new pope will be introduced to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica with the iconic announcement, “Habemus Papam!” — “We have a pope!”

Security measures around Vatican City have been heightened in preparation for the historic event, with large crowds of pilgrims and media personnel expected to gather in anticipation of the new pontiff’s first appearance.

This will be the first papal conclave since 2013, when Pope Benedict XVI’s predecessor, Pope Francis, was elected after Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s resignation.