When the cardinals enter the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday at the start of conclave, the process of electing a new pope, they will be sealed off from the world.

A papal conclave blends the political and the spiritual, cardinals and theologians say. Here, in Catholic belief, is how the Holy Spirit fits in.

Cardinals will begin the crucial process of electing a new Pope. Join us as we explore the intricacies of the papal election and the frontrunners in this pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, live from Rome with Scripps News Correspondent Joe St.

Here’s a look at some of the leading papal contenders, with the proviso that favorites don’t typically end up getting the nod.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, seen here with Pope Francis in 2015, could become the first Asian pontiff - Wally Santana

All mobile phone signals will be deactivated in the Vatican on Wednesday ahead of the highly secretive conclave to elect the next pope, Italian state media reported. The Vatican also plans to use signal jammers around the Sistine Chapel to prevent electronic surveillance or communication outside the conclave that will see 133 cardinals vote on who will succeed Pope Francis and lead the world’s 1.

This step is being taken ahead of the secretive vote to select the next pope, who will succeed Pope Francis who passed away on April 21. Special signal jammers. To ensure full pri