On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome held the sixth General Congregation in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. This session brought together 183 cardinals, including 124 electors, and began with a spiritual meditation given by Dom Donato Ogliari, abbot of St. Paul Outside the Walls. (Conclave de 2025)
Highlights of the April 29 session
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Meditation by Dom Donato Ogliari: Abbot Ogliari urged the cardinals to seek a humble and gentle pastor, faithful to the Gospel, capable of guiding the Church in a spirit of service and trust in God. He emphasized the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit in the discernment process.
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Cardinals' interventions: About twenty cardinals spoke to share their reflections on the contemporary challenges of the Church, including evangelization, interreligious relations, ecclesial governance, and the fight against sexual abuse. These interventions highlighted the diversity of perspectives within the College of Cardinals. (Conclave de 2025)
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Statement from the College of Cardinals: At the end of the session, a statement was published to thank the faithful around the world for their prayers and support during Pope Francis's funeral. The College also invited Catholics to continue praying for the smooth running of the conclave and for the election of a new pontiff guided by the Holy Spirit. (Conclave de 2025)
Other notable developments
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Cardinal Becciu's renunciation: Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu announced that he would not participate in the conclave, thus respecting the wish expressed by Pope Francis before his death. This decision comes in the context of embezzlement accusations against him.
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Liturgical preparations: The Office of Liturgical Celebrations published a note specifying the details of the entrance procession to the conclave. Elector cardinals are expected on May 7 at 4:15 PM in the Pauline Chapel, dressed in their traditional liturgical attire. The procession to the Sistine Chapel will be done singing the Veni Creator, marking the official start of the conclave. (Notice from the Office of Liturgical Celebrations: Entry into the ...)
