Cardinals prepare for conclave as Pope Francis' legacy looms

After Pope Francis’ passing, 60 cardinals convened on April 22 at the Vatican, initiating secretive talks regarding the late pontiff’s final rites and the process of selecting a new leader. By April 25, the number of cardinals involved had risen sharply to 149, setting the stage for critical decisions ahead of the conclave.

These general meetings, which occur daily, are considered as important as the conclave itself. They provide a platform for candid discussions where cardinals can evaluate potential candidates and openly exchange views. Unlike the conclave, where voting is done in strict privacy, these gatherings foster a more open, collaborative environment for consideration and debate.

John Thavis, a seasoned Vatican journalist, explained that the general congregations are a space for cardinals to deliberate and assess the character and qualifications of papal hopefuls. Michael Higgins, who authored The Jesuit Disruptor: A Personal Portrait of Pope Francis, noted that the gatherings allow cardinals to engage in meaningful, informal conversations—strengthening connections and making it easier to gauge each other’s perspectives.

The cardinals’ speeches, combined with informal interactions like coffee breaks, provide valuable insight into the direction of the Church. Pope Francis’ approach of selecting cardinals from diverse regions has made this process even more crucial, as many of the participants are meeting for the first time.

The conclave, expected to begin by May 6, will be a significant turning point in determining the future of the Catholic Church.

#PopeFrancis #VaticanConclave #CardinalsMeet #FutureOfTheChurch