267th Pope to be elected on May 7

The College of Cardinals has set May 7 for the papal election. This follows the death and burial of Pope Francis.

The new pope will be the 267th in Catholic Church history. The announcement came on Monday, April 28, after a Vatican meeting. This marks the final step in selecting a new pope.

The conclave will take place in the Sistine Chapel. There, 134 cardinals under age 80 will vote beneath Michelangelo’s paintings.

Traditionally, cardinals will first hold a special Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. They will then walk to the chapel while singing a hymn for guidance from the Holy Spirit.

Inside the chapel, each cardinal promises secrecy and votes for their preferred candidate. The doors remain locked until a new pope is chosen. A candidate needs at least 90 votes to win.

Most cardinals are already in Rome; others are expected soon. The May 7 date follows tradition, allowing 15–20 days for mourning and travel after a pope's death.

People worldwide will watch the chapel chimney closely. Black smoke means no pope has been elected yet; white smoke indicates a new pope has been chosen.

This election is notable because Pope Francis appointed 108 of the voting cardinals. This brings more diversity from around the world.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re leads the College of Cardinals and guides this election process. It is expected to be one of the most diverse in Church history.

An estimated 400,000 people attended Pope Francis's funeral in St Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell at age 88.

Pope Francis passed away just one day after appearing on Easter Sunday at Saint Peter’s Basilica despite being ill.