The cardinals gathered at the Vatican have decided that the conclave to elect the 267th successor to St. Peter will commence on Wednesday, 7 May. A total of 134 cardinal electors will participate in the conclave, with 23 cardinals hailing from Latin America and the Caribbean. The cardinals recently participated in the Fifth General Congregation, where they discussed the qualities the new Pope should possess to address the current challenges facing the Catholic Church.
During the congregation, the cardinals deliberated on topics such as the Church’s relationship with the contemporary world, evangelization, and its relationship with other religions. They also discussed the issue of abuse and the qualities required of the new Pontiff to respond effectively to these challenges. Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Vicar General of the Diocese of Rome, emphasized the need for discernment and order in the reform processes initiated by Pope Francis to continue building “a new heaven and a new earth.”
The conclave, which will take place in the Sistine Chapel, will mark a significant moment in the Catholic Church’s history as it elects a new leader to succeed Pope Francis. The cardinals will gather to cast their votes and choose the next Pope, who will guide the Church in addressing the complexities of the modern world.