India, May 5 -- With the death of Pope Francis on April 21, the Catholic Church has entered a period of mourning and transition. The process to elect a new pope will formally begin on May 7 when cardinals gather for the Conclave.

The Conclave is a secret meeting where cardinals vote to elect a new pope following the death or resignation of the current one. Voting must begin 15 to 20 days after the seat falls vacant in the Vatican City.

However, if all voting cardinals are present in Rome, they can agree to start earlier. Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. Currently, there are 133 eligible cardinals, as per news agency AFP.

Voting takes place in the Sistine Chapel. The cardinals begin with a Mass and then cast thei...