In brief
As anticipation builds, a traditional secret voting process in the Sistine Chapel will commence.
Next month, the Vatican will host a crucial conclave starting on May 7, where approximately 135 cardinals will gather to elect a new pope after the recent death of Pope Francis at the age of 88. The closed-door event will take place in the iconic Sistine Chapel and follows Pope Francis's funeral, which drew global leaders and thousands of mourners.The process of electing a new pope is shrouded in secrecy, with all voting taking place in isolation from the outside world. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re has stated there is no set duration for the conclave. Historical conclaves in 2005 and 2013 wrapped up in two days; however, achieving a two-thirds majority among the cardinals may take longer if necessary.The voting includes a unique card system where each cardinal records his candidate's name in Latin. The world will eagerly watch for the sign of black smoke, indicating further voting is required, or white smoke, which announces the election of a new pope. Meanwhile, the legacy of Pope Francis continues to be honored, highlighted by touching tributes and visuals from his recent funeral, which featured emotional moments and significant attendance.
