How do religions choose their leaders? What to know as Catholics prepare for next pope

From conclaves to reincarnation, religious traditions around the world follow different rules when selecting new spiritual leaders. Here’s how major religions make their choices.

The pope’s regnal name: What it is and why it matters

When a new pope is elected, one of his first decisions is to choose a regnal name — a symbolic gesture that reveals spiritual inspiration, political intent, and historical legacy.

White smoke vs. black smoke: What it means for the pope

Following Pope Francis’ death, the Vatican begins the conclave to elect a new pope, with smoke signals from the Sistine Chapel marking the votes.

Conclave schedule: How the Catholic church picks a new pope

Here's when we could see smoke -- and a new pope -- now that the conclave is getting underway in Vatican City.

Trump's AI image of himself as pope draws criticism ahead of conclave

President Donald Trump’s latest social media stunt – an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the pope – sparked immediate backlash.

Trump at pope’s funeral: Talks with Zelenskyy before Mass

This was the first face-to-face meeting for the two world leaders after their heated exchange in the Oval Office in February.

When does conclave start? What to know about choosing the next pope

After a period of mourning, cardinals will gather to elect the next pope in the centuries-old ritual known as the conclave. Here’s what we know about its beginnings.

Pope Francis remembered with massive, historic funeral

The funeral for Pope Francis is getting underway soon in Vatican City. The 88-year-old pontiff was known for charming the world with his humble style and concern for the poor.

Pope Francis funeral homily: Watch and read full transcript

Pope Francis was remembered as a “pope among the people" in his funeral Mass Saturday, eulogized by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.

Pope Francis' funeral: How to watch

Pope Francis’ funeral is set for Saturday in St. Peter’s Square. The former pontiff is to be celebrated by His Most Reverend Eminence Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals.

Pope Francis: Bucks County parish hosting night of remembrance ahead of live funeral coverage

As the world prepares to remember and honor Pope Francis, who died Monday, a Bucks County church is opening their doors for the public to reflect on the pontiff and watch live coverage of the funeral.

Remembering Pope Francis and his impact
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Bill Anderson and FOX 29 remember the life and legacy of Pope Francis, specifically when he visited the City of Philadelphia in 2015 and the impact he had on the lives of those he met on that journey.

How to watch Pope Francis' funeral on FOX 29 and FOX LOCAL

Pope Francis’ funeral is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square and will be led by the dean of the College of Cardinals.

Doctor recalls Pope Francis' final moments in new interview

Pope Francis managed a gesture of farewell before he passed away early Monday. Those around him said it appeared he didn't suffer.

How to watch Pope Francis' funeral

Pope Francis’ funeral is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square and will be led by the dean of the College of Cardinals.

Pope Francis' body moved to St. Peter's Basilica for public viewing

There will be three days of public viewing at St. Peter's Basilica to allow the public to grieve the 88-year-old Pope Francis, who died Monday after suffering a stroke.