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Gingerbread Cookies

These cookies are warmly spiced, with crisp edges and soft centers—perfect for holiday decorating and eating. Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar ¾ cup unsulfured molasses 1 large egg Instructions Mix dry ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Cream butter & sugar : In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add molasses and egg. Combine : Gradually add dry mixture until dough forms. Chill dough : Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Roll & cut : Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Bake : Place on parchment-lined sheets and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until edges are set. Cool & decorate : Let cool com...

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Cardinals Prepare for Papal Conclave Amid Calls for Unity

The Vatican has announced that the conclave to elect the next pope will commence on May 7. This decision follows the funeral of Pope Francis, who led the Roman Catholic Church for 12 years before his passing on April 12. 

The College of Cardinals, comprising 135 electors under the age of 80, will gather in the Sistine Chapel for the secretive voting process. A two-thirds majority is required to elect the new leader of the Church, which has an estimated 1.4 billion followers worldwide. 

In the days leading up to the conclave, cardinals from diverse corners of the globe are engaging in informal meetings to foster familiarity and consensus. Many of these cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis and have had limited opportunities to interact, adding an element of unpredictability to the proceedings. 

The conclave is expected to reflect the Church's ongoing dialogue between progressive and conservative factions. While some cardinals emphasize continuing Francis' focus on social justice, others advocate a return to traditional doctrines. 

The conclave's outcome will shape the future direction of the Church, as cardinals navigate the delicate balance of unity and diversity within its leadership. 

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