Vatican City - The papal conclave began today in the Vatican to elect the successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21st. 133 cardinals from 71 countries are participating in the election, held in secrecy within the Sistine Chapel.
The cardinals will participate in a series of votes. A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new Pope. Black smoke will signal a lack of agreement; white smoke will indicate a successful election.
The newly elected Pope will choose a name and be presented to the world. He will appear on the main balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to greet the crowd and give his first apostolic blessing.