Vatican

The decision was made at the Fifth General Congregation, held on Monday morning in the Vatican's Synod Hall. The conclave will take place in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, which will remain closed to visitors during those days.

Only 135 of 260 cardinals, or those under age 80, will vote for the next pope in a Vatican City conclave expected to begin on May 6 or soon after.

In the weeks that follow the passing of a pontiff, the city of Rome, and the Vatican in particular, comes alive with discussions over which man is best suited to next lead the church.

Kevin Farrell is the camerlengo, or acting head of the Vatican, until a new pope is elected. Here's what to know about Farrell, who was born in Ireland and spent much of his career in the U.S.

Pope Francis's death sets an ancient machinery into motion. Soon, with a puff of smoke, the last absolute monarchy in Europe will get a new leader.

Bishop Paul Tighe, the Adjunct Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Culture, was a member of the Vatican's inaugural panel at the Austin fest. He discusses the Catholic Church's social media role.

Days before the release of books that purportedly contain revelations of corruption, the Holy See charged a monsignor and a public relations expert with leaking confidential information to the media.

On Thursday, the Vatican releases Pope Francis' document on the environment and poverty. He has said he believes global warming is a moral, and man-made, issue — angering climate change skeptics.

Jozef Wesolowski, the former Vatican ambassador to the Dominican Republic, is the first person arrested in the Vatican on charges of pedophilia. If convicted, he could face up to 12 years in jail.