The Conclave will take place in the Sistine Chapel, which will remain closed to visitors throughout the process.
The Cardinals present in Rome have agreed that the Conclave to elect a new Pope will begin on May 7, 2025.
The decision was made Monday morning during the fifth General Congregation at the Vatican, with about 180 Cardinals, including just over 100 electors, in attendance.
The Conclave will take place in the Sistine Chapel, which will remain closed to visitors throughout the process.
Prior to the Conclave, the Cardinal electors will celebrate the votive Mass Pro Eligendo Papa. In the afternoon, they will process solemnly into the Sistine Chapel, swear oaths of secrecy, and commence voting.
A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new Pope. Balloting will continue until a candidate is chosen, signaled by white smoke from the chapel’s chimney.
Upon election, the new Pope immediately assumes authority over the Catholic Church and will later deliver the Apostolic Blessing Urbi et Orbi from St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Conclave will be held under strict secrecy rules.