The decision was made during a closed-door meeting of the College of Cardinals and announced at a media briefing at the Vatican.

Cardinals have no contact with the outside world after the master of liturgical ceremonies utters the words “Extra Omnes” the Latin phrase for “all out,” to ask all those present except the cardinal electors to leave the Sistine Chapel to begin the voting process.

The papal conclave will commence in May, when the cardinals will meet at St. Peter's Basilica and pray for the wisdom to select the next pope.