Cardinals say all 133 can vote for new Pope

Vatican City

The College of Cardinals announced on Wednesday that all 133 cardinal electors will be allowed to vote in the upcoming papal conclave starting May 7. This goes beyond the usual limit of 120 set by Church law.

The declaration was issued during the General Congregation and explained that the late Pope Francis had created more than 120 cardinals under age 80, who are eligible to vote. Based on paragraph 36 of the Apostolic Constitution Universi Dominici Gregis, they are granted voting rights from the moment they become cardinals.

Vatican News reported that the decision confirms all 133 eligible cardinals will have a say in electing the next Pope. The vote will take place in the Sistine Chapel, which will be closed to visitors during the conclave.

The Cardinals also thanked Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, who chose not to join the conclave due to an ongoing corruption case. They praised his decision to step aside to protect Church unity and peace.

The conclave will begin with a special Mass, followed by a solemn procession to the Sistine Chapel. Inside, cardinals will vote under strict rules: no phones, letters, or outside communication.

A two-thirds majority is needed to elect a new Pope. Ballots are burned after each vote — black smoke signals no decision; white smoke means a Pope has been chosen.

Once elected, the new Pope will be announced with the words, “Habemus Papam,” and will bless the people from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.