As a fireworks expert tests the Vatican's contemporary system for "holy smoke," Catholic cardinals mull their divergent priorities for Pope Francis' successor.

Tens of thousands were on hand to see the billionaire announce his plans to retire. Their attention is already focusing on ...

With conclave set for May 7, Church scholars say successor to Francis must balance legacy, heal rifts between reformists and ...

They will gather in secret in the Sistine Chapel starting at 4:30 pm (1430 GMT) on Wednesday, and will keep voting until one ...

Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle has emerged as one of the two favorites to become the next pope, but he faces accusations of not doing enough to deal with claims of child sex abuse in the church.

Catholic cardinals entering a conclave on Wednesday to pick a new pope do not yet have a clear idea of who will emerge as ...