As the College of Cardinals assembled in Rome, religion classes at Quincy Notre Dame were also getting a chance to see history in the making.
The seniors were in fourth grade the last time this happened.
Scott Douglas teaches religion. He says the conclave represents a chance to incorporate current events into the classroom.
"We've spent some time already talking about just about the procedure and the process because it isn't something that happens on a regular basis. And especially now with something more interesting in terms of how a pope is elected is the fact that this pope resigned and stepped down and you just don't see that very often," Douglas said.
The cardinals have returned to the Vatican's Santa Marta hotel for the night. They return to the Apostolic Palace for Mass Wednesday morning and a new round of voting.
Pope Benedict is said to be following the proceedings from home, as cardinals from around the world start the task of choosing his successor.
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