The Vatican confirmed that the conclave to elect a new pope will commence on May 7, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. The decision was reached during a session of the Congregation for Cardinals, which is responsible for the arrangements. Of the 225 cardinals globally, only 135 under the age of 80 will vote, while older cardinals can participate in informal talks. Opinions among the cardinals vary, with some wanting to continue Francis' legacy, while others favored conservative changes. Rituals of the conclave involve secrecy and isolation to maintain integrity during the election process.
A new pope is chosen in a process shaped by centuries-old rituals, where cardinals swear an oath of secrecy and seal themselves off from the world, ensuring an undisturbed election.
Spanish Cardinal Jose Cobo noted that the upcoming conclave may be unpredictable, framing it as a 'pope of surprises' just like Pope Francis's tenure.
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