Photos

Papal ring, insignia destroyed at cardinals’ final meeting

On the eve of the conclave, the ring and lead seal of the late Pope Francis were destroyed in the presence of members of the College of Cardinals in the Vatican’s New Synod Hall.
Cassocks for the new pope are arranged in the antechamber of the Sistine Chapel, sometimes called the "Room of Tears," May 6, 2025, ahead of the conclave which begins May 7. (CNS photo/Vatican Media)
Wooden balls used to count votes with a number corresponding to each cardinal elector are seen in the Sistine Chapel May 6, 2025, ahead of the conclave to elect a new pope which begins May 7. (CNS photo/Vatican Media)

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