With the death of Pope Francis, it is now time to select a new pope and the Catholic Church has a very unique way of doing so. This is something that is not witnessed by the world very often.
Most people don’t recognize that electing a new pope is a democratic process, but it is one of the most secretive anywhere on the globe. 120 Cardinals will be behind closed doors in order to do so.
While the process is taking place, the President of the College of Cardinals will not be able to speak to the media to give any updates. This is not only something that is frowned upon, it is considered to be a crime by the Catholic Church. If they were to break the protocol, they could face excommunication.
In addition, the Cardinals are not allowed to make a pact with any other voters. The last pope will not be allowed to be swarmed by officials, priests, and nuns. He will not be laid out as part of the service.
In reality, nine days of morning are declared when the late Pope dies and his body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica. For 15 days prior to the conclave arising, this will take place until the successor is chosen.
Doing so allows Cardinals from around the world to get to Rome. They are no longer locked inside the building physically as they were in the past, but they will be staying inside the walls of the Vatican at a guesthouse, known as St. Martha’s House. They will have all of the services necessary to get by until they make their decision.