Catholic Church prepares for historic conclave after pope's passing
On Easter Monday, 21st April, the world learned of the death of Pope Francis. This means we are on the eve of the conclave—the cardinal electors will soon gather in Rome to choose Francis' successor. When will this happen?
"Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta," reported Vatican News.
After the pope's death, the conclave begins, which is one of the most significant events in the Catholic Church. It involves cardinals who are under 80 years old on the day of the pope's death or resignation (the number cannot exceed 120 electors).
During the conclave, the faithful watch the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, awaiting the moment when white smoke rises from it. This will indicate that the cardinals have chosen a new pope.
Conclave - When will it take place?
After the pope's death, "sede vacante" begins, which is the period without a pope, lasting until a successor is chosen.
The pope's funeral must occur between the fourth and sixth day after his death. The Church anticipates nine days of mourning, called "novemdiales", which commence with the funeral and conclude when the cardinal electors gather in the Sistine Chapel to start the conclave. This means that the College of Cardinals assembles roughly two weeks after the pope's death or abdication.
The conclave takes place in strict isolation from the outside world. The cardinal electors gather in the Sistine Chapel and swear not to reveal any information about the voting process.
