video transcript

The mood in the Vatican was one of anticipation on Friday morning, the day after Pope Benedict's historic resignation. Benedict ended his eight-year reign on Thursday, becoming the first pontiff in six centuries to resign instead of ruling for life. Church cardinals are now preparing for the conclave that will select a new pope. Those around the Vatican reflected on the historic event. "He's always present, he's always present with his prayer and with the great lessons that he left behind," said one nun from Albania. Souvenir vendor Emmanuele Salfeti said he was hoped a new pope would be appointed soon. (SOUNDBITE) (Italian) SOUVENIR VENDOR, EMMANUELE SALFETI, SAYING: "It's too soon to say, let's see what happens in the next few days. Let's hope that things return to the way they were before. The sooner they do it (elect a new pope), the better for everyone, for the church and for the tourists...it's one thing when you have a pope and another when there isn't one." One passer-by said she felt the mood had changed already. (SOUNDBITE) (English) BY-PASSER, DORIS LERNER, SAYING: "It's a little flat, you feel that he's not there." No front-runner stands out as successor among the 115 cardinal electors - those aged under 80 - due to enter the Sistine Chapel for the closed-door conclave.