Cardinals walked from the Pauline Chapel to the Sistine Chapel today to pick a new pope. They sang about saints during their march through Vatican City. After entering the famous room with painted ceilings, they promised to keep everything secret. Each person swore on the Bible not to tell what happens inside. The doors closed after everyone took their oath.
People waiting outside must watch for smoke signals from the chapel chimney. Black smoke means they need more time to decide, while white smoke tells everyone a new leader has been chosen. The first signal should appear around 8 p.m. local time. Most experts think Thursday will be the earliest we might see a new pope. The 133 voters stay at Santa Marta's house until they finish.
Officials turned off all phone signals at the Vatican before the meeting began. They also use special jammers around the chapel to stop anyone from listening in or sending messages. Cardinal Timothy Dolan from New York asked Catholics to pray for him during this important job. The chosen person will lead over one billion Catholics worldwide.
People waiting outside must watch for smoke signals from the chapel chimney. Black smoke means they need more time to decide, while white smoke tells everyone a new leader has been chosen. The first signal should appear around 8 p.m. local time. Most experts think Thursday will be the earliest we might see a new pope. The 133 voters stay at Santa Marta's house until they finish.
Officials turned off all phone signals at the Vatican before the meeting began. They also use special jammers around the chapel to stop anyone from listening in or sending messages. Cardinal Timothy Dolan from New York asked Catholics to pray for him during this important job. The chosen person will lead over one billion Catholics worldwide.
