New Pope expected to be selected in May

JOHANNESBURG - With the passing of Pope Francis and his burial on Saturday, the seat at Saint Peter’s Basilica remains empty.

The Basilica is one of the largest churches in Christianity, and is believed to be the burial site of Saint Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples. 

It is also the church of the Popes.

It was closed following Francis’ passing on Monday, but will be reopened for the public on Sunday.

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The Pope's funeral has set off nine days of official Vatican mourning for the pontiff, who took over following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013.

After the mourning, cardinals aged under 80 will elect a new pope from among them.

The election takes place with the meeting of the conclave, the assembly of cardinals, and takes place between 15 and 20 days after the passing of the Pope. 

While the date is yet to be announced, tradition dictates that it may be between 6 and 11 May.

In the meantime, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who as Camerlengo is running the Vatican's day-to-day affairs until a new Pope is elected.

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