Pope Francis Dies at 88; Catholic Church Begins Ancient Process to Elect New Pontiff

The Catholic Church has entered a solemn period of mourning following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88.

Church leaders have now begun the process to select the next pope—a tradition steeped in centuries of religious ritual, spiritual reflection, and global significance. The College of Cardinals, a body of senior church officials appointed by popes over the years, will oversee and participate in the secretive election process.

The election, known as a conclave, typically takes place 15 to 20 days after the papal office becomes vacant. Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, and they must cast their ballots in person in the Sistine Chapel. Before the conclave officially begins, all cardinals—regardless of age—convene in Rome to discuss the future of the Church and consider potential candidates.

Although technically any Roman Catholic male can be elected pope, the successor will almost certainly be chosen from among the cardinals, as has been the case since the 14th century.

The conclave is sealed from the outside world—no communication, media, or messages are allowed. Violating the secrecy of the conclave could result in excommunication. Cardinals vote up to four times a day, writing the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot and placing it in a chalice. A candidate must receive two-thirds of the vote to be elected.

If a vote is inconclusive, the ballots are burned with chemicals that produce black smoke, signaling no decision has been made. Once a new pope is chosen, white smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel chimney, and the world knows the Church has a new leader.

A senior cardinal will then emerge on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, declaring “Habemus Papam”—“We have a pope”—and introducing the new pontiff, who then offers his first public blessing.

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