Odds-makers likely had an easier time 20 years ago, when Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger stepped onto the balcony overlooking St.

The late Pope Francis ... Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI both worked hard during their pontificates to preserve and defend Catholic moral teaching, doctrine, and tradition.

The last three popes each chose very different paths between Rome and home—sometimes confrontational, sometimes aloof.

After praying the “ Regina Caeli ” with visitors in St. Peter’s Square May 25, Pope Leo noted that the previous day was the ...

Like the other ceremonies and traditions that accompany the advent ... His predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, chose his papal name to show his commitment to peace and reconciliation by honoring ...

The term conclave comes from the Latin term “con clavis”, meaning “with a key”, a reference to the tradition ... by Pope John Paul II with later amendments made by Pope Benedict XVI.

The tradition of burning ballots goes back to ... In addition, a bell is rung, part of the ritual introduced when Pope Benedict XVI was elected, which confirms the smoke is white and a new pope ...

Pope Benedict XVI paid homage to Benedict XV, who led the church during World War I, but also to St. Benedict of Nursia, who founded the Benedictine Order and influenced the spread of Christianity ...

When the white smoke appears and a new pope is chosen, he is asked: “By what name shall you be called?” This tradition began ... Another example is Pope Benedict XVI, who chose to honor ...

He decided to stick with tradition regardless ... variations, each pope has had his preferences. “Pope Francis was satisfied with a cheap light wool. Pope Benedict XVI used more elegant material ...

Pope Benedict XVI chose his name in 2005 to reflect both continuity and a commitment to intellectual tradition, invoking Benedict XV. Choosing the name Leo connects the new pope to a long legacy ...

Pope Leo XIV came out wearing the traditional garb for a new pope Thursday – a red mozzetta and a stole over a white rochet and his new white cassock – restoring a tradition that Pope Francis ...