Following the passing of Pope Francis on Monday, April 21, 2025—the day after Easter— Robert Aloisio is publishing a book, ‘Konklavi’, released by Sayit Publications. The aim of this book is to address common questions and misconceptions associated with the Conclave, as the College of Cardinals began preparations to elect the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church.

Three years ago, Aloisio published a book on the last seven Popes. In his most recent publication, this time he turns his attention to the last seven conclaves held by the Catholic Church over nearly eighty years of history while exploring the mystery, symbolism, and secrecy that often surround the Conclave.

The Conclave Begins Next Wednesday

The Conclave—the centuries-old and solemn process by which the College of Cardinals elects a new Pope following the death or resignation of a pontiff—remains one of the most significant events in the life of the Catholic Church and of global importance, as the Pope also remains a relevant figure in today’s world.

The Cardinals have already gathered in Rome and are currently residing at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, near St. Peter’s Basilica. In the days leading up to the Conclave, the General Congregations—including Cardinals over the age of 80 who are not eligible to vote—have been meeting to discuss the state of the Church and the characteristics they seek in the next Pope. On April 28, two days after Pope Francis’ funeral, the Cardinals set the date for the start of the Conclave: Wednesday, May 7.

Opening of the Conclave – 7 May 2025

At the time of Pope Francis’ death, the College of Cardinals numbered 252 members, of whom 135 are under the age of 80 and thus eligible to vote in the upcoming Conclave, exceeding the limit of 120 set by Universi Dominici Gregis (1996). Two Cardinals, however, will not be attending due to health reasons. With 133 electors expected to participate, a candidate will need a two-thirds majority—89 votes—to be elected.

The Conclave will formally begin at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The Cardinal electors will first gather in the Pauline Chapel, located in the First Loggia of the Apostolic Palace. From there, during the chanting of the Litany of the Saints, they will process into the Sistine Chapel. After singing the Veni Creator, they will take their solemn oath as required by tradition.

All proceeds from the sale of this book will go to support Kċina ta’ Marta, a Church-led initiative offering assistance to people facing difficult times. Each week, around 400 individuals receive approximately 1,200 free meals prepared by 30 dedicated volunteers at the Seminary in Tal-Virtù. An additional 20 volunteers deliver meals to the homes of those unable to leave their residences. Kċina ta’ Marta is coordinated by LOOP Diakonija Parroċċi with the support of The Alfred Mizzi Foundation.

The book can be bought online at sayitmalta.com. Copies will also be available at the Preca Library bookshop from next Wednesday, 7th May 2025.