Conclave stories

Today’s news is all about the preparations for the Conclave which begins at 4.30pm Italian time today (2.30pm GMT). If the cardinals decide to hold a vote this evening then it is possible that white smoke will be seen over the Sistine Chapel later today. News stories include

• the BBC: Mass begins new pontiff election

• The Times: Cardinals prepare to enter conclave with special Mass; How a new pope is elected; Progressive cardinals try to block Ratzinger

• the Guardian Cardinals start choosing new pope

• the Telegraph: Conclave meets to elect new pope

Update
Fulcrum has published an article by Oliver O’Donovan on Pope John-Paul II