The cardinals set the date after arriving for the first day of informal meetings following Pope Francis’ funeral Saturday.

Catholic cardinals will assemble for the election of the next leader of the church on May 7, after the funeral of Pope Francis last Saturday.

The decision was made at the Fifth General Congregation, held on Monday morning in the Vatican's Synod Hall. The conclave will take place in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, which will remain closed to visitors during those days.