The cardinals who will elect a new Pope began their formal conclave today in Rome. They are trying to determine who among them is best suited to lead the Catholic church.

Is there a chance an American will be chosen? Bishop of the Salina Diocese, that also includes Hays, the

Most Reverend Edward J. Weisenburger told Hays Post, “There is always a lot of talk about front runners but they are rarely chosen.”  Weisenberger believes it’s a wide open conclave “It will come down to who the Holy Spirit settles on,” he said.

The cardinals will vote four times each day until one candidate receives a 2/3rds majority. The 115 voting cardinals are expected to finish their work before the weekend.