The Conclave starts

The last meeting between all the cardinals held yesterday brought forth many issues they discussed and which they would like to see in the new Pope, as a continuation of what Pope Francis had started.  Among these issues were: legislation on abuse, economic issues, the Roman Curia, synodality, work for peace, and care for creation. They want him to to be a Pontifex, a builder of bridges, a shepherd, a master of humanity, and the face of a Samaritan Church. They further mentioned a need for a Pope of mercy, synodality, and hope, as well the need to tackle the urgent issue of climate change.

Let us pray for the 133 cardinals who will be entering the conclave this afternoon, and will not appear until they have chosen the next Pope, appearing in the balcony of St. Peter’s basilica a few minutes after the white smoke from the chimney has alerted the entire world about the final result. We pray that they will be inspired by the Holy Spirit to discern and make the right decision. Other cardinals have done so over the past 100 years and beyond. We cherished the presence of Pius IX, Leo XIII, Pius X, Benedict XV, Pius XI, Pius XII, John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul I, John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis. Each one of them had a special charisma, and each left a tangible mark on the history of the church. May the new Pope would have just an impressive charisma to lead the church over the next 20 to 30 years. I included above this collage of 15 cardinals. Most probably it would be one them, but then again there may be a surprising choice, a name that is not that familiar. Let us pray as the Catholic church waits in anticipation, waiting for that famous phrase ‘Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum, Habemus Papam!’ (I announce to you great news – we have a Pope !)