All 133 electors have arrived in Rome for the conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis.
In Short:
All 133 eligible cardinals have gathered in Rome for the conclave to elect a new pope following Pope Francis’s death. There is ongoing debate among the cardinals about the future direction of the Church, with differing views on whether to continue Francis’ progressive agenda or return to traditional values.
All 133 cardinals eligible to elect a new pope have arrived in Rome for the conclave, according to the Vatican.
The conclave will commence on Wednesday at the Sistine Chapel after the death of Pope Francis last month.
Debate continues among cardinals about the direction of the Church, with some favouring continuity of Francis’ openness while others prefer a return to traditional values.
The conclave process typically involves multiple voting rounds until a candidate receives a three-quarters majority.
Internal division
Since Pope Francis’s passing on April 21, cardinals have held discussions about the Church’s future, addressing concerns about divisions within the institution.
On Monday, 180 cardinals participated in discussions, although two cardinals will miss the conclave due to health issues.
The cardinals expressed the need for a future pope who is present, guiding, and attuned to the realities of everyday life.
While some cardinals are considered potential successors, including Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, many are still undecided.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols noted that his changing candidate list reflects an ongoing deliberation process.
Further discussions will take place ahead of the conclave, with cardinals residing in Vatican guest houses and restricted from outside contact.
Cardinal Walter Kasper expressed confidence that the electors would favour a pope continuing Francis’ progressive agenda, despite some calls for a shift in direction.