Pope Francis, the Catholic Church's 266th pontiff, was the first Jesuit to lead the church in its nearly 2,000-year history. Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina, died April 21 at age 88 .

The role of women in the Catholic Church is a big issue 04:00. With the conclave to select a new Pope beginning on May 7, many are wondering in what direction a new pope will take the Catholic Church.

How the Catholic Church will pick a successor. The forthcoming conclave will take place amid the glare of social media and the cardinals will need to make sure they vet candidates closely.