Italian Cardinal Angelo Becciu's decision to withdraw from the upcoming conclave to elect a successor to the late Pope Francis could spare the Catholic Church from a potential scandal that threatened to overshadow the proceedings.

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.

The Vatican’s cardinals’ assembly, known as the General Congregation, has chosen May 7 as the starting date for the highly secretive election that will choose the next pope, the Holy See said on Monday.