News

Can the Vatican still keep a lid on its biggest news? The smoke says yes.
In an era of instant scoops, steady leaks and unlimited rumors, the College of Cardinals stays mum on picking the new pope.
Cardinals from across the world gather in the Vatican to elect new pope
The cardinals have gathered in Vatican City to choose the 267th pope. St Peter, regarded as the first pope, was elected ...
Cardinals mull Pope Francis' replacement as Vatican preps for conclave, fireworks expert tests "holy smoke"
As a fireworks expert tests the Vatican's contemporary system for "holy smoke," Catholic cardinals mull their divergent ...
Ahead of the conclave, the Vatican staff is to be sworn to secrecy under threat of excommunication
All Vatican personnel involved in supporting the upcoming papal conclave will take an oath of secrecy — under penalty of ...
Custom fireworks and standby firefighters: How the Vatican makes its smoke signal
Experts say the process requires "two custom fireworks", smoke test rehearsals and Vatican firefighters on standby.