Chapitre 10: Chapter 10

5. 00 A.M.

PALACE OF HOLY OFFICE, ROME.

The College of Cardinals sat down on the cushions that were arranged in neat four rows. Some of the cardinals are fingering their rosary, while some others occupy themselves with silent meditation and prayer.

The expansive chapel of the Holy Office was gracefully designed with frescoes depicting scenes from the Old Testament on its vaulted ceiling. The walls were awash with lush mosaics with lurid details depicting the twelve apostles, each represented with his symbol of apostleship. A gold chandelier, which was ornately designed with lapis lazuli gems and glass, held over 50 scented candles whose reflection on the gems gave the chapel a peaceful aura and a prayerful atmosphere. Stained glasses served as louvers and separated the vaulted ceiling from the stucco walls.

In front of the chapel is an ivory life-size crucifix and the 'INRI' sign above is engraved in gold.