Pope Benedict issued an apostolic letter yesterday outlining new rules for the forthcoming sede vacante period and conclave (full text, comment by canonist Edward Peters). Benedict XVI has ruled that only his successor will be allowed to read the secret dossier on the VatiLeaks scandal prepared at the Pope's request by three cardinals. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone has written to contemplative orders asking for prayers for the coming conclave. David Willey says that Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi has emerged "as a leading player among the Vatican insiders who are going to dominate" the conclave. John Thavis notes that "cardinals and journalists are going to be working in the same building during the pre-conclave discussion period". GQ reporter Sean Flynn hears about a Vatican monsignor who shot cats as he investigates the VatiLeaks scandal. And Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York has urged his flock to "please send peanut butter" if he doesn't return from Rome by Palm Sunday. Follow me on Twitter @lukecoppen for updates throughout the day.