Pope Francis successor: Conclave begins on May 7

The Holy See Press Office on Monday April 28, 2025, announced that the conclave to elect a new Pope will begin on May 7.

The announcement followed a decision by Cardinals present in Rome during their fifth General Congregation.

The Vatican announced that the conclave will hold inside the Sistine Chapel..

They confirmed that the conclave will take place inside the Sistine Chapel, which will remain closed to visitors throughout the election.

The decision comes after the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.

The late Pontiff died peacefully at the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace after battling declining health for several months.

Pope Francis had earlier undergone surgery and intensive medical care in late 2024.

Despite efforts by doctors, his health deteriorated rapidly in early 2025.

In his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20,  Pope Francis delivered a brief blessing to the church.

The Catholic world mourned deeply following his death, with tributes pouring in from global leaders and millions of faithful.

The Vatican held Pope Francis’ funeral on April 26,  2025, at St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing an estimated 150,000 mourners.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s funeral procedures served as a guide, though Francis’ burial carried unique tributes to his legacy.

Pope Francis was interred beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, joining a line of revered predecessors.

Following his funeral, the College of Cardinals entered a period of mourning and prayer before convening meetings to plan the conclave.

The conclave will involve Cardinals under 80 years of age, tasked with electing the 267th successor of St. Peter.

Over 120 eligible Cardinals are expected to participate in the highly secretive electoral process.

Vatican officials said preparations inside the Sistine Chapel are already underway to uphold the sacred traditions.

The Cardinals will swear an oath of secrecy before voting, with severe penalties for breaches.

Security inside Vatican City has been tightened, with Swiss Guards and Vatican Police on high alert.

During the conclave, white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney will signal the successful election of a new Pope.

Black smoke will indicate inconclusive voting rounds, requiring further balloting.

The Vatican warned that no communications, including mobile devices or internet, would be allowed during the conclave.

The new Pope will face major challenges, including Church reforms, global conflicts, and declining Catholic numbers in some regions.

Faithful around the world have been urged to pray for divine guidance in choosing a worthy leader.

The Catholic Church stands at a historic crossroads as the world awaits the emergence of a new spiritual leader.

Meanwhile, thousands of pilgrims are expected to gather at St Peter’s Square to await the white smoke.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook