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A new pope’s first appearance on St. Peter’s balcony is rich with symbols − and Francis’ decision to rein in the pomp spoke volumes

  • Written by Daniel Speed Thompson, Associate Professor of Religious Studies, University of Dayton
imagePope Francis stands at the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican on March 13, 2013, just after being announced as pontiff.AP Photo/Andrew Medichini

As the College of Cardinals gathers in the Sistine Chapel to vote for a new pope, crowds outside will watch for the most dramatic moment of the conclave, when a wisp of white smoke...

Read more: A new pope’s first appearance on St. Peter’s balcony is rich with symbols − and Francis’ decision...

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