An Italian cardinal who was convicted of embezzlement and fraud said on April 29 he will not take part in the secret conclave to elect the new pope that will be held beginning on May 7 in the Sistine Chapel following the death of Pope Francis.

Pope Francis's death at the age of 88 means the Catholic Church must choose a new leader. Here's how cardinals elect the next pontiff at the conclave.

The papal conclave to replace Pope Francis will begin Wednesday, May 7, the Vatican said on Monday. Cardinals will convene at the Vatican to begin a process of choosing a new pope, who will become the Catholic Church's 267th leader.