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.
Justice Department investigating new WA law requiring clergy to report child abuse
The Justice Department is investigating a new Washington state law requiring Catholic clergy to report child abuse, raising concerns about religious freedom and confidentiality.
DOJ investigating new WA law requiring clergy to report child abuse
Clergy in Washington state are now mandatory reporters of child abuse under a new law.
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.
Governor Ferguson signs bill into law requiring clergy members to report abuse
Priests, rabbis and other religious leaders will soon become mandatory reporters of child abuse.
Date set for conclave to elect next pope, Vatican says: What to know
Catholic cardinals have set a date for the conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor.
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.
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.
Why are flags at half staff in WA? Here's what to know
Gov. Bob Ferguson has directed that flags at all state agency facilities in Washington be lowered to half-staff in honor and remembrance of Pope Francis, following a presidential proclamation issued Monday.
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.
Why popes are traditionally buried in three coffins — and why Francis broke with tradition
A look at the centuries-old tradition of burying popes in three coffins — and why Pope Francis decided to simplify his own burial rites.
You can bet on the next pope; here's who's currently favored
As the world awaits an official announcement of who will be the next pontiff, here's who the oddsmakers favor to replace Pope Francis.
What's next for the Catholic Church?
In the wake of Pope Francis' death, questions are growing about what is next for the direction of the Catholic Church and its leadership. Gonzaga University Religious Studies Professor Megan K. McCabe, Ph.D. joined Good Day Seattle to explain.