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The conclave to elect a new pope began on May 7th. 133 cardinal electors are participating in the secret process within the Sistine Chapel. The cardinals will choose a new pope from among their own ranks. The election is overseen by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, though he cannot vote. White smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney signals a successful election, followed by the announcement "Habemus Papam" and the new pope's name. The process is governed by the Vatican constitution, "Universi Dominici Gregis."

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.