Followup Question

One of my friends has sent a question about my last post about the new pope and asked me what the white smoke means.Check out the third section in this link about traditions in electing a new pope.  And here is one more question....what is done to make the smoke black or white? Keep those questions coming!

White Smoke Rises

It seems no matter where you look on tv or internet, you can't help but hear about the new Pope. Here are some interesting reports:
ONE  TWO THREE FOUR

Please let me know if you have any specific questions. For now, I have a few...

1.What are all the FIRSTs involved in this selection?
2.What are the key words that are being used to define him, (what is being repeated)?
3. What is unique about his lifestyle?

Gambling and the New Pope?!

Ok, this is interesting and a challenge as the report speaks very fast.
What does 76% refer to, and what is the irony about this, i.e. why is it mentioned in this report?

Voices of Opposition

There are some groups speaking up concerning the selection of the next pope. What is each group protesting?
Pink Smoke;  SNAP; Wardrobe;

Traditionalists vs. Reformers

Here's a straightforward report about the battle between two "camps" among the cardinals gathering @ the Vatican. Suggestion: make a list of the names and issues that define the two groups.

Who will be the next Pope?

Whatever your religious affiliation, following the story about the next Pope is a great opportunity to practice your listening and reading skills in English. There are so many idioms and vocabulary terms  that can be used in other situations. Also, the news is saturated with the stories, so it gives you many opportunities to read and hear the same information in different reports. Great way to practice;

SO, Will the Pope come from Europe, The America's, Asia or Africa?
Here is CBS News list of the Top 16 contenders.
Also, here is chart which shows you which countries have the most Catholics. FYI

Any questions?

Papal Conclave 101

Sometimes people use the term 101 when they want to introduce or talk about basic information about a topic. Here is one such report from CNN about the upcoming papal conclave!
Do you have any questions?  I do. Here are a few....
1 What precautions are being taken  to assure the conclave remains private.
2. What is the "rift" or division that is talked about @ :27?  Who is the rift between? What is it about?
3. What majority is needed to declare a winner?   How many votes can be taken a day?
4. What's the danger if the conclave lasts more than 3-4 days?