when does the conclave start

The conclave to elect the new pope officially started on May 7, 2025. On that day, the cardinals began the process with a Mass at St. Peter's Basilica at 10 a.m. local time in Rome, followed by the cardinals processing into the Sistine Chapel to cast their first vote later in the day. The formal voting process commenced after a prayer service in the Pauline Chapel and included the cardinals swearing secrecy before entering the Sistine Chapel. The conclave was set to begin 16 days after the death of Pope Francis, following established procedures.