The pope’s death ushers in a series of centuries-old rites, including a period of mourning, an elaborate burial and the ...

With the death of Pope Francis April 21, the practical aspects of overseeing the day-to-day needs of the church and ...

Black smoke fumata nera in Italian indicates an inconclusive vote, while white smoke fumata bianca will signify that a new pope has been elected. If three days pass with no pope elected, voting can be ...

From the Vacant See to the day of Habemus Papam. The cardinal protodeacon, the most senior by appointment, will announce the ...

Francis, who emerged from his convalescence on Easter Sunday to bless the thousands of people in St. Peter's Square, died on ...