Sedia gestatoria but many sources indicate the use of the sedia is of a much earlier date, probably being derived from rituals accompanying the leadership of the ancient Roman Empire. It was used in the solemn ceremonies of the coronation of a new pope until the enthronement ceremony was abandoned altogether. It also was used for solemn entries of the pope to St. Peter's or to public consistories. In the first case, three bundles of tow were burnt before the newly elected pontiff, who sits on the "sedia gestatoria", while a master of ceremonies says: ""Pater Sancte, sic transit gloria mundi"" (Holy
Religion in Azerbaijan Religion in Azerbaijan Azerbaijan is an overwhelmingly Muslim country. Estimates include 96.9% (CIA), 90.7% (Berkley Center, 2012), 99.2% (Pew Research Center, 2009) of the population identifying as Muslim. Most are adherents of Shia Islam (approximately 85%), with a minority (15%) being Sunni, differences traditionally have not been defined sharply. Most Shi'a are adherents of orthodox Ithna Ashari school of Shi'a Islam. Following many decades of Soviet atheist policy, religious affiliation is nominal in Azerbaijan and Muslim identity tends to be based more on culture and ethnicity than religion. Traditionally villages around Baku and Lenkoran region are considered stronghold of Shi'ism.