By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — When white smoke came pouring out of the Sistine Chapel chimney and the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica started pealing, people who had been relaxing at cafes or sitting in the shade went running or quickly walking toward St. Peter’s Square. “Hurry! Get over here! It’s […]
Papal frontrunner lists have been plentiful — outside Vatican
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — After the funeral and burial of Pope Francis April 26, the attention of the world turned to who would be the next pope. The news media, blogs, pundits and people on the street all seem to have their favorite candidate or a list of “probable” next […]
Conclave boasts wide range of age, geography
By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — The conclave that began May 7 was expected to be the largest in history, with a wide geographical mix of cardinal-electors. There are 135 cardinals under the age of 80 and eligible to vote in a papal election. By contrast, 115 cardinals took part in the […]
Texts, secrecy guide historic election
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — The conclave to elect a new pope, which began May 7, is governed by two texts: a rule book and a prayer book. The rule book is the apostolic constitution, “Universi Dominici Gregis” (“Shepherd of the Lord’s Whole Flock”), which was issued by St. John Paul […]