Conclave: rules, profiles, duration and curiositiesCardinals call for prayer for the ConclavePapables: much ado about nothingThe twelfth and last General Congregation of the cardinals, prior to the beginning of the conclave to elect the new Pope, was held on Tuesday, May 6, at 9:00 a.m. The meeting was attended by 173 cardinals, including 130 electors, and 26 interventions were recorded. It was attended by 173 cardinals, including 130 electors, and 26 interventions were recorded that addressed multiple central themes for the future of the Church.
Priorities of the new pontificate
The session began, as usual, with a moment of prayer. The interventions "reiterated the awareness that many of the reforms promoted by Pope Francis need to continue": the fight against abuse, economic transparency, the reorganization of the Curia, synodality, commitment to peace and care for creation.
One of the central aspects that emerged in the interventions was the desired profile of the next Pope: "The profile of a shepherd Pope, a teacher of humanity, capable of embodying the face of a Samaritan Church, close to the needs and wounds of humanity". In this time "marked by war, violence and strong polarization", a figure of spiritual guide who inspires "mercy, synodality and hope" is being sought.
Papal power and unity
Some interventions focused on canonical issues and reflected "on the power of the Pope". Also discussed were "the divisions within the Church and society and the way in which the cardinals are called upon today to exercise their role in relation to the Papacy."
The need to make the meetings of the College of Cardinals more meaningful during the ConsistoriesThe theme of the meeting was "to promote a solid Christian initiation as a missionary act. He also recalled "the martyrs of the faith," especially in areas where Christians are persecuted.
Climate engagement, ecumenism and peace
He spoke about the World Day of the Poor and its relationship with the Solemnity of Christ the King, stressing that "the true kingship of the Gospel is manifested in service".
Among the pastoral urgencies, the challenge of climate change was reaffirmed as "a global and ecclesial challenge". Likewise, the ecumenical dialogue was taken up again, with references to the Council of Nicaea and the possibility of a common date for the celebration of Easter.
The Congregation concluded with the reading of an official communiqué: "an appeal addressed to the parties involved in various international conflicts". In it, the cardinals called for "a permanent cease-fire and the beginning of negotiations leading to a just and lasting peace, respecting human dignity and the common good."
Symbolic acts
During the session, the cancellation of the Fisherman's Ring and the Seal of Lead, distinctive signs of the previous pontificate, was also announced. Finally, "some practical dispositions were offered regarding the program of the cardinal electors during the conclave". The meeting concluded at 12:30 p.m. and no further general congregations are planned.
