Pope Francis' successor to be chosen in conclave starting May 7

Cardinals meeting in Rome have agreed to begin the conclave to elect a new pope on May 7, according to the ANSA news agency. The announcement follows the death of Pope Francis, who passed away last week at the age of 88.

The election process will start with a solemn mass at St Peter's Basilica on Wednesday, May 3. After the mass, eligible cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel for the secretive voting process. The conclave could take several days before a new pope is chosen.

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, 21 April 2025, in his residence at Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City. His death came just a day after his final public appearance at St Peter's Square, where he delivered his last Easter address, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.

As per his wishes, Pope Francis was buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. His spiritual testament, dated 29 June 2022, had requested this final resting place.

Cardinal electors

The College of Cardinals that will elect the next pope includes 135 cardinals, most of whom were appointed by Pope Francis during his 12-year leadership. Many of these cardinals come from around the world and do not know each other very well. Cardinal Vincent Nichols said the cardinals have a week to get familiar. Only those under 80 are allowed to vote, but it is unclear how many will take part. One Spanish cardinal has already said he won’t attend due to health reasons.