VATICAN CITY
NBC Chicago
By Mary Ann Ahern
Thursday, Mar 7, 2013
While there is strong speculation the conclave to pick the next pope will begin Monday, the cardinals have not yet officially set a date. The Vatican spokesmen say the “mood” is that their discussions are not done and they aren’t ready to vote.
The Roman Catholic cardinals held their fifth discussion Thursday morning but are still waiting for the cardinal from Vietnam, arriving in Rome today. Vatican spokesman Rev. Federico Lombardi said they realize the “huge responsibility placed on the shoulders of the cardinals” and do not want to rush their decision of who will succeed Benedict XVI.
The cardinals meet again Thursday afternoon, but a Vatican spokesman does not necessarily believe the conclave date will be set then either. While they have not yet scheduled a Saturday session, it is a possibility.
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