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With the Mass Pro Eligendo Pontifice in the morning and the procession of the Cardinals into the Sistine Chapel, the Conclave of May 7, 2025, officially begins. Cardinal Re, Dean of the Sacred College, gave a speech urging his fellow cardinals not to be guided by personal considerations. I imagine the Cardinals enter with minds full not only of what has been discussed during the General Congregations but, above all, of what has been discussed in even more private meetings, organized by those who, for obvious reasons excluded from the Sistine Chapel, are nonetheless attempting to influence the outcome in one way or another.
In the final General Congregation, according to the official communiqué, the topic of discussion was “the power of the Pope.” This is a canonical theme of great importance, which cannot ignore the scenarios opened by Benedict XVI’s resignation and the confusion this event generated in parts of the Church. Pope Francis’s particular style of governance has also raised questions that require thoughtful answers. I believe there is a need to clarify what, until a few decades ago, was quite clear: the distinction and articulation between being Bishop of Rome and Pastor of the universal Church.
Even here in Rome, as we discussed a few days ago, there is a palpable sense of frustration, stemming from the fact that Catholicism seems increasingly irrelevant in society. Parish priests find themselves preaching to half-empty churches, and even in basilicas of great tradition, a sense of decline is evident. Survival has become the goal, in the absence of a clear direction.
Today, the area around St. Peter’s is secured by more than 4,000 police officers. On my way to the spot where I will be commenting on the Conclave for Inside the Vatican magazine, I noticed that the nearby trattorias were overrun by journalists from all over the world, getting ready to cover this great event. I had a brief encounter with Raymond Arroyo (EWTN), who happened to be in the same place where I now find myself.
The Italian newspapers today are insisting on an advantage for Cardinal Pietro Parolin and the rise of Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa. Meanwhile, it seems Cardinal Tagle is losing ground. In truth, no one really knows—not even me. I don’t expect any major surprises today, but with the Holy Spirit, nothing can ever be taken for granted.
Photo by Jacob Fryer on Unsplash
