The 12th and final General Congregation of Cardinals, taking place in Rome, focused on the necessary qualities for a future Pope as the Conclave approaches.
The day before the beginning of the Conclave, the twelfth and final General Congregation of Cardinals pointed to the future Pope needing to be a shepherd, bridge builder, and promoter of reform.
On Tuesday afternoon, 6 May, the day before the beginning of the Conclave, 173 Cardinals, including 130 Cardinal electors, participated in the twelfth General Congregation, explained Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, during a subsequent briefing with journalists.
He noted, the Congregation that began at 9 am with a moment of prayer had 26 interventions, addressing a wide range of topics; the reforms of Pope Francis that need to be carried forward: legislation on abuse, economic issues, the Roman Curia, synodality, work for peace, and care for creation.
The theme of communion was emphasized as a calling for the new Pope to be a Pontifex, a builder of bridges, a shepherd, a master of humanity, and the face of a Samaritan Church.
In times of war, violence, and deep polarization, it was said, there is a need for a Pope of mercy, synodality, and hope.
The Canon Law and the power of the Pope was also part of the discussion.
On Tuesday morning, May 7th, there will be the Mass pro eligendo Pontifice.
Then at 3:45 pm, the Cardinals will be transported from Casa Santa Marta to the Apostolic Palace in choir dress for the entrance into the Conclave.
On Thursday morning, at 7:45 am, the Cardinals will depart from Santa Marta to the Apostolic Palace, and at 8:15 AM, they will celebrate Mass and Lauds in the Pauline Chapel.
Afterward, at 9:15 AM, there will be mid-morning prayer in the Sistine Chapel and they will begin voting.
By Vatican
6th May 2025
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