1.4 Billion Catholics Await New Leader as Conclave Set May 7, Date

MONDAY April 28, 2025 |
By thenewsdesk.ng

The College of Cardinals has selected May 7 as the date to begin the conclave that will elect the next pope, a senior Vatican official confirmed to CNN, marking a pivotal moment for the 1.4 billion Catholics around the globe.

The announcement follows the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke and heart failure.

His funeral, held on the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica, drew an outpouring of global grief, with dignitaries, religious leaders, and faithful from across continents gathering to honor his legacy.

In accordance with his wishes, Francis was buried Saturday in a modest tomb within the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

The simple marble slab bears only the name “Franciscus.” On Sunday, cardinals and pilgrims alike visited the site, many pausing in silence to reflect, pray, or lay flowers as the late pontiff was remembered for his humility and compassion.

The first general congregation of cardinals convened Monday morning at the Vatican, the initial step in a series of daily meetings that will continue until the conclave begins.

These sessions allow the cardinals to assess the state of the Church and set the stage for the confidential voting process that will ultimately select the next pope.

Only cardinals under the age of 80 are permitted to vote. Of the current members of the College of Cardinals, 135 meet the age requirement and will participate in the conclave.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as the Church prepares for one of the most consequential elections in its modern history.