The Vatican announced on Monday that the conclave to elect the next Pope will begin on May 7th. The decision was made by the cardinals present in Rome. The conclave will take place in the Sistine Chapel of the Vatican, which will be closed to visitors during these days.
The beginning of the conclave is marked by a solemn Eucharist celebration, in which the eligible cardinals participate. Following this, they process into the chapel, where each of them takes an oath. They pledge to faithfully carry out the office of the Pope if elected and to maintain absolute secrecy about the election process.
For the election of the new Pope, a two-thirds majority of the attending cardinals is required. After each vote, the ballots are burned. Black smoke signals a failed election, while white smoke indicates the election of a new Pope. If no agreement is reached after three days, a pause of up to one day is allowed to allow for prayers and discussions.