Pope Francis passes at 88; conclave to follow in two weeks
On Easter Monday, April 21, the world learned of the passing of Pope Francis. This means we are on the eve of the conclave, when the cardinal electors will soon gather in Rome to choose Francis’ successor. When will this happen?
"Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta," reported Vatican News.
Following the pope's death, the conclave begins—one of the most significant events in the Catholic Church. It involves cardinals who are under 80 years old at the time of the pope’s death or resignation (the number of electors cannot exceed 120).
During the conclave, the faithful watch the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, waiting for the moment when white smoke rises from it. This signifies that a new pope has been chosen by the cardinals.
Conclave - When will it take place?
After the pope's death, the "sede vacante" begins, which is the period without a pope, lasting until a successor is chosen.
The pope's funeral must take place between the fourth and sixth day after his death. The Church observes nine days of mourning, known as "novemdiales," starting with the funeral and ending when the cardinal electors gather in the Sistine Chapel to start the conclave. This means that the College of Cardinals assembles approximately two weeks after the pope's death or abdication.
The conclave occurs in strict isolation from the outside world. The cardinal electors gather in the Sistine Chapel and swear not to disclose any information about the voting process.
