The cardinals have made a decision concerning the election of the next pope

It’s on May 7 that the cardinals will meet behind closed doors to elect the new pontiff, the one who will carry out the Church’s reforms and define the Vatican’s guidelines for the coming years. The decision has now been officially confirmed.

All communication with the outside world will be forbidden to the 135 cardinals taking part in the conclave, which will be held in the Sistine Chapel in the heart of the Vatican until the next pope is elected.

This election, in which the next pope will have to obtain two-thirds of the vote, will undoubtedly mark one of the most decisive moments for the future of the Vatican.

Pope Francis has been seen as a figure of reform and compassion, seeking to modernize the Church while advocating humility.

His social approach, focused on the excluded, has won worldwide admiration, but also internal criticism, particularly from conservatives opposed to his initiatives for change.

The outcome of the conclave will be closely watched, as it will reveal the Church’s vision for the future, influencing not only its internal evolution, but also its role on the world stage, in a time of profound change.

Traditionally, the election of a pope can last several hours or even days. From May 7 onwards, each voting session will be followed by the emission of smoke from a chimney in the chapel: black if there is no election, white to announce the election of the new pope.