Perhaps belying Ratzinger's prediction, UK bookmaker William Hill has Canadian Marc Ouellet and Ghanaian Mark Turkson are showing as favorites so far, at 7-2 odds.

CNN: February 12, 2013 -- Updated 2035 GMT (0435 HKT)

Other names included Canadian Cardinal Marc Oullet, who heads the Vatican's powerful office for bishops and Dolan.

NPR: Cardinals Celebrate Mass Before Entering Conclave

Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet is well-respected, stemming from his job at the important Vatican office that vets bishop appointments.

NPR: Conclave To Elect Next Pope Opens Amid Uncertainty