VATICAN PREPARES FOR PAPAL CONCLAVE AS CARDINALS GATHER IN ROME
The Vatican confirmed on Monday that all 133 eligible cardinal electors have arrived in Rome ahead of the papal conclave to choose a successor to Pope Francis, who died on April 21. The conclave will begin Wednesday May 7th in the Sistine Chapel, with secrecy and ritual intact.
The race remains wide open. Some cardinals want a pope who continues Francis’ reforms, such as openness to LGBTQ blessings and women’s roles. Others seek a return to conservative tradition. Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines are seen as potential frontrunners, though many electors say their choices are not final.
Meetings have focused on Church unity and leadership qualities. German Cardinal Walter Kasper, who will not vote due to age, believes most want continuity with Francis’ pastoral style.
Two cardinals—one from Spain and one from Kenya—will miss the conclave for health reasons. The process could take days, requiring a three-quarters majority. During the conclave, electors will live in seclusion at Vatican residences, barred from external contact.
