Pope Benedict XVI is considering changing the Vatican constitution to allow a vote for his successor to begin before March 15 , Vatican spokesman the Rev . Existing rules say voting for pope should begin 15 to 20 days after papal vacancy . But Vatican has said because Benedict XVI is resigning , a vote should be held sooner than usual . Benedict 's resignation is scheduled for May 28 .
Existing rules say voting for pope should begin 15 to 20 days after papal vacancy . But Vatican has said because Benedict XVI is resigning , a vote should be held sooner than usual . Benedict 's resignation is scheduled for May 28 .