The Race for a New Pope: Cardinals Conclave Begins

Roman Catholic cardinals are set to begin the crucial task of electing a new pope on Wednesday. Gathering in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, they will lock themselves away in a time-honored conclave until they determine who will become the new leader of the 1.4 billion-member Church, succeeding the late Pope Francis.

History suggests that a new pope is unlikely to be chosen on the first day of voting, as the process could extend over several days. A single ballot will be held on Wednesday, followed by up to four ballots each subsequent day until one candidate achieves the necessary two-thirds majority.

With high-profile candidates such as Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle in the running, a record-setting 133 cardinals from 70 nations will converge at the Sistine Chapel. Discussions will revolve around maintaining the progressive legacy of Francis and respecting the Church's diverse global communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)