The 177 Cardinals Gather in Rome for the Ninth General Congregation
Excitement filled the air in the Vatican as 177 Cardinals convened for their ninth General Congregation on Saturday morning. The lively discussions centered around the Church’s imperative need for hope during the ongoing Jubilee.
Insights from the Holy See Press Office
Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, addressed reporters and shared that a total of 177 Cardinals participated in the momentous gathering in anticipation of the upcoming conclave. The session commenced at 9:00 AM with a solemn prayer.
The congregation witnessed the engaging exchange of 26 speeches, highlighting crucial topics such as:
– Fostering communion within the Church and fraternity in the world
– Gratitude towards Pope Francis and his visionary initiatives based on Evangelii Gaudium
– Promoting collaboration and solidarity among Churches
– The significance of the Roman Curia’s role in relation to the Pope
– Advocating for peace through the Church’s service
– Emphasizing the value of education
– A collective aspiration for the next Pope to be a beacon of hope and prophetic leadership
Themes like synodality, collegiality, and the essence of hope resonated among the Cardinals during the congregation. The Cardinals also deliberated on the Church’s imperative role in engaging with the world and fostering ecumenical dialogue and mission.
Cardinals Francis Prevost and Marcello Semeraro were chosen by lot to assist Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Cardinal Camerlengo, in handling ordinary affairs. Additionally, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, announced the organization of a Rosary at St. Peter’s Basilica every Saturday evening throughout May.
As the preparations for the conclave intensified, the Cardinals were accommodated at Casa Santa Marta, ensuring a smooth transition for the upcoming events. The Cardinals will officially move into Casa Santa Marta on Tuesday evening, May 6, in preparation for the Mass Pro Eligendo Romani Pontifice.
The Cardinals are set to convene for another General Congregation on Tuesday, May 6, with the possibility of an afternoon session. Meanwhile, a press briefing updating journalists on the Congregations may take place on Monday, May 5, after the second session of the General Congregation concludes at 7 PM.
Exciting times lie ahead as the Cardinals embark on this journey of faith, unity, and hope, embracing the profound responsibility that comes with electing the next leader of the Catholic Church.
