Welcome to the Vatican Basilica, where the Mass for the Elector of the Roman Pontiff took place this morning. Cardinal Dean highlighted the tasks of each Successor of Peter, emphasizing the importance of love as a “new commandment.” The cardinal electors were reminded to elect with the utmost human and ecclesial responsibility, putting aside personal considerations for the good of the Church and humanity.
As the procession made its way into the Basilica, the opening antiphon set the tone for the day. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, led the ceremony at the Altar of Confession. In the presence of 220 cardinals, electors, and non-electors, the focus was on the upcoming Conclave to elect the 267th Pontiff.
In confident expectation
Cardinal Re expressed his “confident expectation” for the election of a Pope needed by the Church and humanity in these challenging times. He stressed the significance of the cardinal electors’ act, calling it a decision of exceptional importance that requires setting aside personal motives.
Love changes the world
Reflecting on the Gospel of John, Cardinal Dean emphasized the transformative power of love. He highlighted the fundamental quality of Pastors as love and self-giving, emphasizing the importance of ecclesial communion and universal brotherhood.
Increasing communion
Cardinal Re pointed out the task of the Successor of Peter to enhance communion among Christians, bishops, and the Church. He emphasized the importance of unity in diversity, ensuring fidelity to the Gospel.
The election of a Pope is not a simple succession.
Cardinal Dean invoked God’s guidance in selecting a Pope who can lead the Church and society towards moral and spiritual growth amidst technological advancements. He emphasized that choosing a Pope is not merely a succession but a return of the Apostle Peter.
May the Cardinals Agree in Their Choice
As the Cardinal Electors prepare to enter the Sistine Chapel, Cardinal Re expressed hope for unity in electing the Pope suited for the current times. The full text of the homily reflects the solemnity and importance of this momentous occasion.
Welcome to a New Era of Love and Unity
It is truly remarkable how a simple message from the Old Testament has evolved into something so profound and positive. The ancient admonition of “Do not do to others what you would not want done to you” has now been expanded and transformed into a message of boundless love and unity.
At the core of this transformative message is the love that Jesus exemplified during his time on earth. His love knows no bounds and serves as a guiding light for all his disciples. This love must be reflected in our thoughts and actions, leading us to embrace an authentic love that can shape a new civilization – what Paul VI referred to as the “civilization of love.” Love, indeed, is the most powerful force capable of changing the world.
One of the most poignant examples of this love is seen in Jesus’ humble act of washing the feet of his disciples at the Last Supper, a gesture of service and humility that transcended all boundaries, even towards Judas, who would later betray him.
This message of love resonates with the words of the prophet Isaiah in the first reading of the Mass, emphasizing the importance of pastors embodying selfless love and complete self-giving.
As we gather in this Eucharistic celebration, we are reminded of the importance of fraternal love, mutual assistance, and a commitment to ecclesial communion and universal human fraternity. It is the duty of all successors of Peter to foster this communion, not for self-serving purposes, but to promote unity among individuals, communities, and cultures, ensuring that the Church remains a “home and school of communion.”
The unity of the Church, as willed by Christ, does not imply uniformity but rather a profound communion amidst diversity, as long as it upholds unwavering fidelity to the Gospel.
Each Pope, as the successor of Peter, carries on the mission that Christ entrusted to his Apostles, serving as the rock on which the Church is built.
As we anticipate the election of a new Pope, we are reminded of the solemnity of the occasion, where the Cardinal electors will gather in the Sistine Chapel to cast their votes, under the watchful gaze of God, who will judge their decision.
In his Roman Triptych, Pope John Paul II expressed the hope that the Holy Spirit would guide the selection of a new Pope who will lead the Church with wisdom and compassion, especially in a world that is advancing technologically but drifting away from spiritual values.
Let us join in prayer, seeking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, to guide the Cardinal electors in choosing a Pope who will inspire consciences and awaken moral and spiritual energies in our society.
May this new era be marked by love, unity, and a renewed commitment to upholding the fundamental values that define our humanity and shape a better future for generations to come.
