The College of Cardinals gathered for their sixth General Congregation on Tuesday morning, April 29, in the New Synod Hall, where 183 cardinals were present, including over 120 cardinal electors.
During the session, around 20 cardinals addressed key themes concerning the Church and the challenges it faces today, drawing from their regional and continental perspectives.
Two cardinal electors have confirmed that they will not participate in the conclave due to health reasons. Additionally, Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu announced that he would honor Pope Francis' request and refrain from participating in the conclave.
As part of their deliberations, the cardinals approved a message to the world, expressing their gratitude for the support and prayers received recently. The message was officially released on April 29.
The highly anticipated conclave to elect the next pope will begin on May 7, following the same format as the 2013 conclave.
Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside at the votive Mass for the Election of the Roman Pontiff (Pro Eligendo Papa), which will take place at 10:00 AM in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The official start of the conclave will be marked at 4:30 PM with a prayer service in the Pauline Chapel.
The cardinal electors will then proceed in solemn procession to the Sistine Chapel, praying the Litany of the Saints and singing the Veni Creator.
Upon arrival, the cardinals will make a solemn oath to faithfully carry out the Petrine ministry if elected and to uphold the strict confidentiality of the conclave process.
The Vatican remains in prayerful anticipation as the Church prepares to choose its 267th Supreme Pontiff.
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