In a much-anticipated historic act, the Vatican has set May 7, 2025, as the start date for the conclave to elect the next Pope.
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This decision marks an essential moment that could shape the future of the Catholic Church, as conservatives hope for a return to core doctrines amid efforts to continue Pope Francis’ reforms.
On May 7, the conclave to elect the 267th Pope will commence following the Novemdiales Masses for the late Pope Francis.
Approximately 180 cardinals, including over a hundred electors, settled on this date during the fifth General Congregation in the Vatican.
As tradition dictates, the historic Sistine Chapel will host the conclave, closing off to visitors during the election process.
The process of selecting the new Pope will begin with a solemn Eucharistic celebration and a votive Mass Pro Eligendo Papa.
As the ceremony unfolds, cardinal electors must take an oath to uphold the Munus Petrinum and maintain absolute confidentiality regarding the election proceedings.
Notably, the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations will declare “extra omnes” to ensure non-participants leave the chapel before the doors are sealed.
A meditation addressing the responsibilities of the electors will follow, leaving cardinals to deliberate without external influence.
During the conclave, cardinals are expected to avoid communication with outside sources and abstain from media consumption.
A two-thirds majority is needed to elect a new Pope, with stringent voting procedures in place.
“The role of the pope is to essentially hold us together and that’s the grace we’ve been given from God,” said British Cardinal Vincent Nichols, cited by The Associated Press.
If the cardinals cannot reach a decision after three days, they will pause to engage in prayer and discussion in an effort to break any impasse.
Upon election, the newly chosen Pope will be asked for his consent and will select a papal name to symbolize his new duties.
The conclave will conclude as the new Pope assumes his full authority.
The conclusion of this sacred event will be marked by the Cardinal Proto-Deacon announcing the new Pope to the public with the words “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum; Habemus Papam.”
From St. Peter’s Basilica, the new Pope will deliver the Apostolic Blessing Urbi et Orbi, further solidifying his role as the leader of the Catholic Church.
“We have not come here for a political rally. We have come to get a pope out,” said Nigerian Cardinal John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan.
Conclave to elect new pope to begin May 7
Source: Vatican News pic.twitter.com/X3rJS0mfYw
— Fr. Chris Vorderbruggen (@FatherChrisVor1) April 28, 2025
The future Pope’s path continues with the formal possession of the Patriarchal Archbasilica of St. John Lateran after the inauguration ceremony.
Cardinals over the age of 80 may not vote, but they participate in informal discussions ahead of the conclave.
Amid hopeful promises of unity, cardinals from varied backgrounds—many chosen by Pope Francis himself—will ultimately decide the Church’s next chapter.
