Roman Catholic Cardinals from the United States opted for secrecy over transparency, canceling a popular daily press briefing and leaving reporters (and the world) in the dark during an important time for the church.  This happened as most cardinals have arrived at the Vatican to begin the process of picking a new Pope.

The Vatican denies pressuring the Americans, but the U.S. contingent said it cancelled the briefings after Cardinals from other countries expressed concerns over leaks from the “confidential proceedings.”  Italian media reports Cardinals from that country were the most vocal in opposing the press briefings.

The Cardinals have until 20 March to begin the conclave to select a Pope to replace Benedict XVI who retired at the end of last month.