Pope Francis prays at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome during his first morning as pope.

On March 9, the famous chimney that will indicate by white smoke the election of a pope was installed.

South African Cardinal Wilfrid Napier talks about preparations for the conclave.

Msgr. Philip Whitmore talks about life in the Apostolic Palace during the papal transition.

 Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga spoke to Catholic News Service about the top challenges facing the church today.

Alan Epstein talks about the history of the relationship between the pope and the Roman people.

A look at what's expected to take place in the Sistine Chapel on March 12 as 115 cardinals choose the next pope.

In his new e-book Father Martin invites us to encounter God’s presence in prayer.

A look at the Sistine Chapel being readied for the conclave.

Pope Benedict XVI blessed hundreds of thousands of pilgrims during his last general audience before retiring.