Cardinals will convene for the papal conclave on May 7, marking the beginning of the traditional process to elect a new leader of the Catholic Church, as announced by Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni. This announcement follows the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88 after a prolonged health struggle. The funeral attracted numerous world leaders and thousands of mourners who came to the Vatican to pay their respects.
The conclave’s start date was revealed after a fifth congregation of cardinals on Monday, attended by over 180 cardinals, with around 100 eligible to vote, as those over 80 years old are excluded from the electoral process. Discussions during the congregation focused on the Church’s relationship with the world and the challenges the new pope will need to address.
Traditionally, the conclave occurs 15 to 20 days after a pope’s death, but preparations delayed its schedule to May 7. Bruni emphasized the time required for necessary arrangements. This conclave, rooted in a tradition that began in 1268, has become a more organized process over the centuries. Notable past elections, like those of Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI, took about two days, a stark contrast to the chaotic origins of the conclave that involved locking cardinals until a decision was reached.
Funeral rites for Pope Francis are expected to continue for nine days after his burial. As the Church prepares for this significant transition, further updates on the conclave are anticipated.
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