1 week Ago By USA TODAY
The Roman Catholic College of Cardinals have agreed to begin the conclave on May 7th to elect the next pope , the Vatican announced Monday. They made the decision at the Fifth General Congregation in the Vatican’s Synod Hall. The conclave will take place in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, a popular tourist spot that will remain closed to visitors during those days.
Pope Francis , who presided over the Roman Catholic Church and its estimated 1.4 billion followers for 12 years, died April 12. Attention now turns to the selection of his successor .
The College of Cardinals, the church’s most senior members, could require multiple votes since a two-thirds majority is required. Only those under age 80 are eligible to vote; of the church’s 252 cardinals, 135 will serve as electors, according to the Vatican . 200,000 pack St.
Peter's Square one day after funeral of Pope Francis This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vatican says conclave to elect new pope will begin May 7; live updates.
