RNS Morning Report - As the conclave nears, silence and a growing uncertainty reign

Top Stories As the conclave nears, silence and a growing uncertainty reign VATICAN CITY (RNS) — ‘Right now, everything is secret,’ Madagascar Cardinal Désiré Tsarahazana said. ‘It’s the moment for prayers right now.’   Cardinals’ homilies before conclave speak volumes RNS — While some cardinals emphasized continuity with Pope Francis, others put the spotlight on tradition.   Trump signs executive order creating Religious Liberty Commission (RNS) — President Donald Trump has appointed evangelical allies and a pair of high-profile Catholic clergy to join other faith leaders on a National Commission on Religious Liberty.   Memes of Machiavellian machinations enliven ‘TikTok conclave’ (RNS) — As cardinals gather to elect a new pope, ancient customs collide with TikTok trends, viral memes and a new era of digital scrutiny.   Rumors swirl about Parolin as cardinals meet pre-conclave VATICAN CITY (RNS) — Rumors about pope frontrunner Pietro Parolin have been published this week on various news sites, and sexual abuse watchdogs have raised concerns about his and others' records.   RNS Opinion The papal election could produce a surprise. Unless it doesn’t. (RNS) — Anyone who tells you who the next pope will be is just blowing smoke.   The emperor’s gospel: Donald Trump and the power of Christianity (RNS) — History reminds us that when Christianity is captured by empire, it may flourish in power but withers in spirit.   ICYMI Who are the US cardinals who will be voting for the next pope? (RNS) — Two U.S. cardinals are among the names rumored to be candidates for pope.   These women are giving their legislators a piece of their mind — one quilt square at a time (RNS) — Mormon Women for Ethical Government and its allies have assembled 57 quilts to present to members of Congress on Wednesday. In Other News The Popemobile of Peace: Pope Francis’ final gift to Gaza Catholic leaders criticize Trump for posting apparent AI photo of himself as the pope   Depend on our reporting? Help us out! As a nonprofit newsroom that covers all faiths, RNS sits uniquely at the intersection of freedom of the press and freedom of religion. You can support this work! News tips or feedback? Email comments@religionnews.com Like the Morning Report? Share it with a friend Forwarded this newsletter? Subscribe here We rely on reader donations to power our reporting. Donate here. Or send a check to: Religion News Foundation PO Box 1808 Columbia, MO 65205