How is a new Pope chosen? 

After the passing of Pope Francis on Monday, Catholics across the globe will have their eyes on the Vatican, as the Conclave of Cardinals will be tasked with electing a new leader of the Catholic Church. Catholic Deacon and R&J Reporter Nick Revier explains the process of electing a new Pope. 

Over the years smoke has been an indicator of whether or not the Conclave of Cardinals have elected a new leader. Revier tells us how this tradition started, and what the smoke indicates. 

Speculation has already begun on who the Conclave may choose to lead the church, and Revier explains who’s eligible to be chosen. 

While the focus over the coming week will be on the selection of a new Pope, Revier says it’s also important to look back and remember Pope Francis’s mission. 

Pope Francis’s funeral will be held on Saturday at 3:00 AM CST in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican. Cardinal Giovanni Battista, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the funeral services. After the funeral, Francis’s body will be taken to Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major for burial.