STORY: Cardinals continue to vote to elect a new pope following Francis’ death last month. While the secret election appears wide open, here are some of the names being mentioned as possible successors.

Whether it is Francis II, Leo XIV, or a never-before-used name, a new pope's chosen name sends an early signal about his priorities and vision for the Church.

Francis’ successor will be selected by cardinals at the conclave that began on May 7. Cardinals, known as the “princes of the church,” rank just below the pope in the Roman Catholic Church; together, they are known as the College of Cardinals. When a pope dies, the college chooses a successor.

The papal conclave begins May 7. Here's how cardinals choose the next pope, what to expect and how secretive the process is.