Roman Catholic cardinals gather for a mass in St. Peter's Basilica ahead of the Vatican conclave, a secret ballot that will elect the next pope.<br/> <br />In a process dating back to medieval times, 115 eligible cardinals from 48 countries will shut themselves in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, tasked with choosing the Church's next leader.<br/> <br />Catholic faithful from around the world have travelled to Rome to be present when the new pope is presented.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (English) AMERICAN PRIEST, JAMES PLAGENS, SAYING:<br/> <br />"I see this as an example of how the Church continues to reinvent itself, to continue to bring itself forward to renew itself. It is a wonderful example of our belief that the Holy Spirit of God is with the Church."<br/> <br />The secret conclave, steeped in ritual and prayer, could carry on for several days, with no clear favourite in sight.<br/> <br />The Cardinals will vote four times a day until two-thirds can agree on a candidate.<br/> <br />The cardinals will emerge from their s
