The steady rhythm of pale faces, paler linen and curving hands across the dark expanse adds to the solemn mood.

WSJ: Civic Pride | National Gallery of Art | Washington Double Dutch | By Karen Wilkin

ROME Whatever challenges the Roman Catholic Church faces in 2013, they pale compare to those that prompted the resignation 598 years ago of Pope Gregory XII.

WSJ: When Last Pope Retired, Church Was in Turmoil