A guide to the new pope’s election, from cardinal oath to white smoke
The conclave to elect the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church is being held for the 26th time at the Sistine Chapel.
Cardinals voted to start the election on Wednesday May 7, even though they could have opted for May 5, suggesting they wanted more time for pre-conclave meetings which allow them to mull over candidates.
With recent conclaves lasting no more than two days, many expect the choice to be made on Friday or even Thursday.
After morning Mass, the cardinal electors surrender their mobile phones, form a solemn procession and enter the chapel.
