Follow the conclave news and discover the behind-the-scenes of this centuries-old tradition.
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome observed a pause in their preparatory work for the conclave, due to Pope Francis's funeral taking place that day. No general congregation or formal meeting was held.
On Friday, April 25, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome held the fourth general congregation in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. This session brought together 149 cardinals and was marked by in-depth discussions on the funeral of Pope Francis and the upcoming challenges for the Church.
On Thursday, April 24, 2025, the cardinals gathered at the Vatican for the third general congregation in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. This session was marked by in-depth discussions about the current challenges facing the Church and spiritual preparation for the election of the new pope.
On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome held the second general congregation in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. This session brought together 103 cardinals and focused on essential procedural aspects for the sede vacante period.
On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the cardinals gathered at the Vatican for the first general congregation following the death of Pope Francis the day before. This inaugural session marked the official beginning of the sede vacante period and preparations for the conclave scheduled for May 7.
On Monday, April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88, marking the end of his twelve-year pontificate. His death triggered the period of sede vacante, during which the pontifical seat remains vacant until the election of a new pope.
