Today, May 7, the conclave will begin to choose a new pope after the passing of the late Pope Francis. Cardinals from around the world have gathered to pray and vote for the next leader of the Catholic Church.
In this time filled with the joy of Easter, the Church invites all the faithful to pray more earnestly to God, who lovingly heard the prayers of His beloved Son. We ask that He now look kindly upon us in our need and provide a new Pope—one who will shepherd the Church according to His heart. As we remember Pope Francis, who has been called to the heavenly kingdom, we pray that he may rejoice forever at the banquet of eternal life. We also lift up the College of Cardinals as they gather in conclave to elect a new successor to St. Peter, that they may be guided by the wisdom and prompting of the Holy Spirit. In this moment of waiting, we pray for unity and confidence within the Catholic Church, trusting in God’s hand at work. We also extend our prayers for Christian unity, that full communion among all churches may one day be realized. Finally, we remember all the faithful departed who lived in the hope of Christ, asking that they too may share in His heavenly joy. May God, who willed that the Church be built upon the faith of Peter, grant us in His loving care a worthy successor to continue the mission entrusted to him. Through Christ our Lord.
