Welcome to the latest update from the Vatican! The 113 Cardinals gathered in Rome convened their third General Congregation on Thursday morning. It was a momentous occasion as they announced the speakers for the upcoming pre-conclave meditations.
Report by Vatican News
The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, shared insights with journalists regarding the proceedings of the third General Congregation.
A total of 113 Cardinals assembled in the New Synod Hall for the Congregation, commencing at 9:00 AM with a solemn prayer and concluding at 12:00 PM, with a brief intermission in between.
During the gathering, Cardinals who had not yet done so, took the oath in accordance with the apostolic constitution Universi Dominici Gregis, and engaged in 34 discussions.
A significant decision was made to have Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández preside over the Mass on the sixth day of the Novemdiales, replacing Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
Furthermore, it was agreed that Fr. Donato Ogliari, O.S.B., Abbot of St. Paul Outside the Walls, will deliver the first meditation on Monday, followed by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, Preacher Emeritus of the Papal Household, who will deliver the second meditation at the onset of the conclave, the exact date of which is yet to be determined.
The Cardinals delved into paragraphs 1-23 of Universi Dominici Gregis before engaging in a thoughtful discourse on the Church and the world.
Mr. Bruni announced that the next General Congregation is scheduled for Friday morning at 9:00 AM.
He also mentioned that as of 1:00 PM on Thursday, an impressive 61,000 individuals had paid tribute to the late Pope Francis. St. Peter’s Basilica is expected to close at midnight on Thursday, unless there are still large queues waiting to pay their respects.
Following the funeral Mass for Pope Francis on Saturday, beneficiaries of the Church’s charitable endeavors will gather at the Basilica of St. Mary Major to receive his coffin and honor his memory.
In a statement from the Holy See, it was highlighted that “The poor hold a special place in the heart of God,” reflecting the late Pope’s commitment to the marginalized by choosing the name Francis.
Mr. Bruni added that on Saturday, April 26, a Rosary will be recited in front of the Basilica of St. Mary Major at 9:00 PM, with the burial service for Pope Francis taking place in a private ceremony.
Beginning Sunday, April 27, the faithful will have the opportunity to visit the tomb of Pope Francis at the Marian Basilica.
