Vatican News
How the Conclave Works: It’s Guided by a Rule Book and a Prayer Book
The conclave to elect a new pope, scheduled to begin May 7, is governed by two texts: a rule book and a prayer book.
Conclave: First Ballot Fails to Elect Pope
The ballot failed to reach the two-thirds supermajority, or 89 votes, that is required for a new pope to be elected.
Calling on the Holy Spirit and All the Saints, Cardinals Begin Conclave
Invoking the help of the Holy Spirit and recognizing that millions of people all over the world were praying for them, 133 cardinals entered the Sistine Chapel with a singular goal: to elect "a worthy pastor" for the universal church.
As Conclave Begins, it’s Business as Usual at the Vatican … Sort of
As the conclave dominates conversation in Rome—from morning espresso speculation to taxi driver frustrations—tourists continue to line up outside the Vatican Museums, which remain open with limited access to certain treasures.
Choose the Pope the World Needs, Dean Urges Cardinals Before Conclave
At Mass before the conclave that will elect the next pope, the dean of the College of Cardinals urged his brothers to choose the shepherd the church and all of humanity need "at this difficult and complex and tormented" turning point in history.
Pastor, Diplomat, Former Vatican Official from Asia Often Seen as ‘Papabile’
Sri Lankan Cardinal Albert Malcolm Ranjith, 77, a former Vatican official and nuncio, has led the Archdiocese of Colombo since 2009. His experience makes him a notable papal contender.
Papal Ring, Insignia Destroyed at Cardinals’ Final Meeting
On the eve of the conclave that will decide the next pontiff, the ring and lead seal of the late Pope Francis were destroyed in the presence of members of the College of Cardinals in the Vatican's New Synod Hall.
Child Protection Commission Urges Prayers for Cardinals in Conclave
As the College of Cardinals continues to discuss the church's most pressing issues before the conclave, the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors said it was encouraged that protecting children and vulnerable people was a priority in those discussions.
Cardinal Tobin, at Rome Parish, Focuses on Eucharist, not Conclave
As Catholics in Rome await the election of their new bishop, the pope, some of them celebrated Sunday Mass at their parishes with the cardinals who will enter a conclave May 7.
Creation, Last Judgment, Stoves: Workers Ready Sistine Chapel for Conclave
The Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Sistine Chapel usually top the "must see" list of visitors to Rome and the Vatican.
Cardinal Asks Electors to be Shaped by Spirit Before Voting for Pope
As the Catholic Church elects a new pope, a cardinal reminded his fellow electors that true Christian leadership begins not in control, but in surrender to mystery.