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The conclave to elect the next pope will officially begin on May 7, with a two-day delay designed to allow the cardinal electors to become better acquainted before they are sequestered in the Sistine Chapel.

The aim is to foster consensus and encourage open dialogue before the secretive balloting begins.

“There is the hope of unity,” said Argentine Cardinal Ángel Sixto Rossi, the 66-year-old archbishop of Cordoba who was made a cardinal by Francis in 2023.

While many cardinals have expressed support for continuing Pope Francis’ pastoral focus. He centered his service on the marginalized and issues like peace and social justice. More conservative voices are pushing for a return to doctrinal clarity rooted in the teachings of St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI.

AP News: Glossary of the Conclave

What Is the Conclave?

The conclave is a seretive, closed-door process in which eligible cardinals elect a new pope. The term “conclave” literally means “with a key,” a reference to the tradition that dates back to the 13th century of locking away cardinals until a decision is reached.

The event begins with the Latin command “Extra omnes” (“Everyone out”), removing all non-electors from the Sistine Chapel. It concludes when a cardinal accepts his election with the word “Accepto”, following a two-thirds majority vote.

During the conclave, all communication with the outside world is strictly forbidden, and the cardinals vote beneath Michelangelo’s frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.

The Role of the Camerlengo

The Camerlengo, or chamberlain, oversees the transition period between popes. His duties include verifying the pope’s death and administering the temporal affairs of the Holy See. Currently, this role is held by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, an Irish-born American.

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Electors from a Global Church

The College of Cardinals reflects the global diversity of the modern Church. Of the 135 cardinal electors eligible to vote (under the age of 80), 108 were appointed by Pope Francis, many from parts of the world historically underrepresented in Church leadership.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols acknowledged that the cardinals “don’t know each other very well.” The last group of 20 cardinals was appointed just this past December.

At least one Spanish cardinal has announced he won’t attend the conclave for health reasons, adding to the uncertainty.