Lunch, another vote, vespers and an 8 p.m. dinner are also on the schedule.

WSJ: Cardinals Gather, Facing Varied Agendas

In the Italian capital, Rome, Pope Benedict XVI celebrated with a vespers service in St Peter's Basilica to give thanks for 2012 and look ahead to 2013.

BBC: New year revellers welcome 2013 with fireworks

Elizabeth and the Virgin Mary en route to hear vespers.

NPR: Choirs And Carols: An NPR Christmas