VATICAN CITY (TNND) — Cardinals will start conclave on May 7 and begin the process of electing a new leader in the Catholic church, the Holy See Press Office announced Monday.

"The Cardinals present in Rome made the decision on Monday at their fifth General Congregation," the Vatican wrote on X. "The conclave will take place in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, which remain closed to visitors during those days."

Pope Francis, 88, died from a stroke and heart failure on Easter Monday and was laid to rest on Saturday at St. Mary Major Basilica.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.