133 Cardinals to Elect New Pope in Sistine Chapel Conclave After Pope Francis's Death

The Catholic Church is set to elect a new pope through a conclave beginning on May 7, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025. A total of 133 cardinals, all under 80 years old, will participate in this secretive process at the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, where they will remain until a new pontiff is chosen. The conclave starts 16 days after Pope Francis's death, during the period known as Sede Vacante. The conclave's outcome will be signaled by smoke from the chapel's chimney: black smoke indicates no decision, while white smoke announces the election of a new pope. The first smoke signal is expected at 2 p.m. on the first day, with four voting sessions scheduled daily thereafter, except for the first day which will have only one. A candidate must secure a two-thirds majority to be elected. The name chosen by the new pope will be a significant indicator of his intended direction for the Church. Historically, papal names reflect the legacy and plans of the new pontiff, with past names like John, Paul, and Francis carrying specific connotations. Once elected, the new pope will be announced with the phrase 'Habemus Papam'.