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A group of cardinals in red and white garments stands with their backs turned in a religious setting, while a bishop with a mitre observes a painting of the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus.
The Vatican defines Francis's successor | Camara La Derecha Diario
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All about the May 7 conclave: what is known and who the candidates are

The Vatican announced the date of the conclave. We tell you how the election will be and who has chances of becoming Pope

by

Editorial Team

The conclave to elect the new Pope will begin next Wednesday, May 7 in the Sistine Chapel. The cardinals must reach a two-thirds majority to determine the next head of the Catholic Church.

The date was set after a meeting of more than two hours in which cardinals from around the world participated. Additionally, the oath was taken by those who had not yet done so.

Two cardinals in red vestments walk down a hallway decorated with frescoes and columns, while several people watch from the side.
The conclave to elect the new Pope will begin next Wednesday, May 7 | La Derecha Diario

What is known about the meeting prior to the conclave?

According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, during the meeting 20 cardinals spoke about the ideal profile of the future Pope.

Among the speakers were Reinhard Marx (Germany), Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines), and Dominique Mamberti (France). The controversial participation of Angelo Becciu, excluded by Francis after a financial scandal, was also discussed.

When will the conclave be and how will it unfold

On Wednesday, May 7 in the morning, the cardinals will celebrate a mass in the St. Peter's Basilica. In the afternoon, they will be isolated in the Sistine Chapel to begin the voting.

Interior of a cathedral with ornate columns and a decorated altar, surrounded by people dressed in red and white robes.
The cardinals will celebrate a mass at St. Peter's Basilica | La Derecha Diario

Since this Sunday, the Sistine Chapel has been closed for its preparation. The election process could extend for weeks, as a two-thirds majority is required.

How many cardinals participate and who can vote

  • 134 of the 252 cardinals of the College of Cardinals participate.
  • Only those under 80 years old can vote.
  • The rest can be present to participate in the preliminary discussions.

Until May 7, the mourning period called novendiales is celebrated, with daily masses and secret meetings known as general congregations.

A group of cardinals dressed in red cassocks walks in procession inside a building with walls decorated with religious art.
How many cardinals participate | La Derecha Diario

These assemblies allow the cardinals to debate the future direction of the Church and bring positions closer. Although the discussions are confidential, they have a key weight in the election.

Who are the main candidates to succeed Pope Francis?

Journalist Edward Pentin, an expert on Vatican issues, compiled a ranking with the most mentioned names. The list reflects the tension between continuity and change in the Church.

Péter Erdő

  • Country: Hungary
  • Age: 72 years old
A cleric in golden ceremonial attire and a white mitre decorated with crosses, speaking in a religious setting.
Péter Erdő | La Derecha Diario

Appointed by John Paul II, he is a conservative figure with political weight in Europe. He seeks to rescue key figures of anti-communist Catholicism.

Luis Antonio Tagle

  • Country: Philippines
  • Age: 67 years old

Charismatic, close to Francis, and with a strong social commitment. He could be the first Asian Pope in history.

Peter Turkson

  • Country: Ghana
  • Age: 76 years old

With a moderate profile and strong social sensitivity. His election would mark a historic event as the first African and black Pope.

A Catholic cleric in ceremonial attire with a golden staff smiles while raising one hand.
Peter Turkson | La Derecha Diario

Raymond Burke

  • Country: United States
  • Age: 76 years old

Open opponent to Francis's reforms. He has the support of ultraconservative sectors, including Donald Trump.

Matteo Zuppi

  • Country: Italy
  • Age: 69 years old

Known for his social and mediating work. He represents a profile closer to Francis in pastoral sensitivity.

Malcom Ranjith

  • Country: Sri Lanka
  • Age: 77 years old

Traditionalist in doctrine, he has firm positions against same-sex marriage and female participation in the liturgy.

An elderly man with glasses and white religious attire is sitting on a carved chair, raising a finger as he speaks.
Malcolm Ranjith | La Derecha Diario

Pietro Parolin

  • Country: Italy
  • Age: 70 years old

Secretary of State and a key figure in the internal government of the Vatican. He is considered pragmatic and with global political reach.

Willem Eijk

  • Country: Netherlands
  • Age: 71 years old

Critic of progressive reforms. His theological vision aligns more with the legacy of Benedict XVI than with that of Francis.

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