The Vatican is preparing for the papal conclave on May 7th to elect Pope Francis' successor. Firefighters installed the Sistine Chapel chimney, crucial for signaling the election outcome via colored smoke. Black smoke indicates no election, while white signifies a new pope. Cardinals are currently in pre-conclave meetings discussing the Church's needs and the qualities desired in the next pontiff, including addressing the Vatican's financial challenges.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.