The Archdiocese of Seattle is taking a stand against a recently passed Washington State law that would force priests to

The Catholic Church said priests will be excommunicated if they follow a new Washington state law requiring clergy to report confessions about child abuse to law enforcement.

White smoke will soon rise again from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling a new era of leadership in the Catholic Church — but first, there must be prayers, meetings and a highly secretive conclave.

While the cardinals are known to wear their scarlet red attire, some individuals involved in conclave proceedings were seen in black and purple vestments. Colors often represent the different ranks of the Catholic Church. The pope is usually dressed in white, while cardinals are dressed in scarlet robes.