Cardinals Convene in Rome for Consultations Following Papal Death

As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, Cardinals from around the globe are gathering in Rome to deliberate on the future leadership of the Catholic Church. This morning at 9:00 AM, the Cardinals already present in the Vatican will convene for their third official meeting since the Pope's death, focusing on crucial decisions that will shape the coming days.

The gatherings, known as Generalkongregationen, have attracted significant attention as they set the stage for the upcoming conclave charged with electing the new Pope. Speculation is rife regarding potential candidates, with discussions already underway about the profiles of possible successors. Although no official date for the conclave has been established, estimates suggest it may commence in early May, once again in the Sistine Chapel.

During these preliminary meetings, alliances among Cardinals are likely being formed, which could influence the outcome of the conclave. The Generalkongregationen provide an opportunity for the Cardinals to interact and share perspectives, allowing them to gauge support for various candidates as they consider the qualities desired in the next Pontiff.

Currently, 135 Cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the conclave, although health concerns have led to the withdrawal of two members. All Cardinals, including those not eligible to vote, are invited to participate in the Generalkongregationen. As discussions progress, some participants are tempering expectations, emphasizing that definitive decisions have yet to be made.

As part of the preparations for the conclave, the Cardinals have already held two meetings, the most recent of which included over 100 participants. Key topics addressed include the Novendiale, the nine-day mourning period following the Pope's passing. This period will officially begin on Saturday, the day of the funeral, and will conclude on May 4. Daily masses in St. Peter's Basilica will be conducted in memory of the late Pope, with various high-ranking Church figures presiding over these services.

In the meantime, thousands of faithful continue to pay their respects to the deceased Pope. Following the official viewing of his body, many have lined up to say their final goodbyes at St. Peter's Basilica. On the first day of the viewing alone, tens of thousands visited, with long wait times to enter the basilica. At one point, approximately 100,000 people gathered in St. Peter's Square to honor the late Pontiff.

The Vatican is currently operating under special hours, allowing the basilica to remain open from 7:00 AM until midnight. This schedule will continue until Friday evening, when the body will be sealed in preparation for the funeral ceremonies. Following the mass on the day of the burial, the Pope's remains will be transported to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, where, at his request, he will be laid to rest in a designated niche near a revered Marian icon.

As Rome braces for the upcoming funeral, the city is under heightened security measures and operational protocols. The Italian Civil Protection Agency anticipates that hundreds of thousands will attend the memorial service, prompting an increase in public transportation services and the deployment of volunteers to assist attendees. The highest levels of security preparations are being enforced to ensure a safe and orderly event.