With all the pomp, drama and solemnity that the Catholic Church can muster, 133 cardinals began the centuries-old ritual to elect a successor to Pope Francis, celebrating a morning Mass on Wednesday before opening the most geographically diverse conclave in the faith’s 2,

Voting will take place in the Sistine Chapel, with ballots continuing in succession until any candidate secures two-thirds of the available votes. If no clear choice has emerged after three days, balloting is suspended for 24 hours to allow cardinal electors time to reflect.

Once they are closed in the chapel will have no communication with the outside world until a new pope is elected.