The attention of the church now turns decisively to the question of Francis’ successor and the preparations for the conclave that will elect him.

Dozens, perhaps hundreds, have told me that this time of transition makes them feel unsure, unsettled and uncomfortable, three difficult feelings. Some people have even told me that they are afraid. To which I say: Fear not!

What happens when a pope dies or resigns? How does a papal conclave work? What can we expect from a new pope?

What happens at a conclave? Tom Reese, S.J., answers questions related to the conclave, the event when a new pope is elected by the College of Cardinals.

What happens during the interregnum period? Tom Reese, S.J., explains the time between one pope's death and the succession of the next pope.

What happens when a pope dies or resigns? Tom Reese, S.J., explains the steps in detail of what will occur at the Vatican after a pope's death.

Predicting when the smoke will rise from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel is not an exact science.

St. Óscar Romero's spiritual convictions on the resurrection can be categorized in four ways. First, resurrection is an act and fruit of the Spirit, even now; second, resurrection is a communal, historical reality; third, resurrection is a process of ongoing conversion; and fourth, resurrection is always an eschatological event.

Cardinal Becciu issued a statement the morning of April 29 saying, “I have decided to obey—as I have always done—the will of Pope Francis not to enter the conclave, while remaining convinced of my innocence.”

A conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis will begin on Wednesday, May 7, the Vatican announced Monday.