Becoming pope was a big deal for a cardinal and his family. Leading candidates known as papabili (pope-ables) began strategising and negotiating even before a pontiff died.

As the Catholic Church prepares to elect its next spiritual leader, here’s a detailed look at the centuries-old ritual of the papal conclave, an event marked by history, secrecy, and sacred tradition.

Leaders around the world have begun congratulating Robert Francis Prevost for being chosen to succeed Pope Francis.

The earliest clues suggest Leo could champion inclusion and openness to change — like his predecessor, Pope Francis.