• 133 cardinals gathered for a secretive conclave to elect the next pope following Pope Francis's death.
• The conclave is the most diverse in the Church's history, involving participants from over 70 countries.
• Cardinals are sequestered with their cellphones surrendered to ensure confidentiality during voting.
• Key issues facing the new pope include the legacy of Pope Francis and the ongoing clergy abuse crisis.
• Polling will begin, with smoke signals indicating the outcome of the votes.

Cardinals from around the world have gathered in Vatican City for a historic conclave, officially commencing Wednesday to elect a successor to Pope Francis. After his death last month, this conclave includes 133 cardinal electors, the largest number in history, representing over 70 countries, ensuring a wide geographical diversity in potential leadership, according to Channel News Asia and Los Angeles Times.

On this day, the cardinals participated in a solemn morning Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who encouraged the attendees to prioritize unity and seek a leader who can awaken "consciences" in the current turbulent times. Following this, they entered the Sistine Chapel, where they took oaths of secrecy before shutting the doors for the conclave, according to India Times and India Times.

As the cardinals prepare to cast their votes, they face numerous challenges, especially regarding how to address pressing issues such as the legacy of Pope Francis, the clergy abuse crisis, and the increasing polarization within the Church. The conclave marks a significant moment, particularly because Pope Francis appointed 80% of the cardinal electors present, which may influence the direction of policy following his tenure, as highlighted in reports from Los Angeles Times and Channel News Asia.

Throughout this process, the cardinals have surrendered their cellphones and are held in seclusion to ensure that outside influences do not interfere with their decision-making. As they begin the voting process, the world eagerly awaits the smoke signals indicating the outcome: black smoke for no decision, and white smoke signaling that a new pope has been chosen, according to India Times and Los Angeles Times.