News

From ‘conclave’ to ‘white smoke,’ a glossary of terms used in a papal transition
A change in popes is a complicated process. Centuries-old rituals are involved in the transition in leadership for both the ...
Black smoke vs. white smoke: What does each mean during the papal conclave?
At the end of each voting round, black smoke means a new pope has not yet to be selected, while white smoke indicates a new ...
Conclave begins: Meet the Ohio native among cardinals choosing successor to Pope Francis
The conclave to choose the new pope is underway. And among the cardinals choosing the new Catholic leader is an Ohio native.
College of Cardinals meet Wednesday, could elect a new pope within hours, days
The College of Cardinals will meet beginning Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to vote in a papal conclave -- a secret ballot where two ...
Conclave to Choose New Pope to Begin: What Happens Next?
The papal conclave begins May 7. Here's how cardinals choose the next pope, what to expect and how secretive the process is.
With ceremony and secrecy, the conclave for a new pope is about to begin
As the conclave gets underway, eyes are searching for the billowing white smoke that signals Habemus Papam: “We have a pope.” ...
A Cardinal Shares His Conclave Advice: ‘Bring a Book’
Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York has some tips for first-timers taking part in the sometimes lengthy process of choosing ...
White smoke: signalling a new pope down the ages
When Catholic cardinals vote in the conclave, they then burn their ballots, sending up black smoke to signal no decision or ...