A fter the death of Pope Francis on April 21 , Catholics across the globe mourned as hundreds of thousands descended on Rome, along with global figures and political leaders , for the Pontiff's funeral . Now, the Catholic Church must decide on who will succeed the late Pope Francis. This election is one of the most secretive and important processes for the Vatican. On May 7, cardinals will enter the Sistine Chapel to elect the next head of the Catholic Church. Advertisement Advertisement 133