Cardinal Angelo Becciu has announced he will not participate in the upcoming conclave set to begin on May 7, 2025. This decision comes after a tumultuous period marked by his conviction for peculation by a Vatican court in December 2023, where he was sentenced to 5 years and 6 months in prison. Becciu, who was once a close ally of Pope Francis, stated his choice was made in the interest of the Church and to maintain the serenity of the conclave.
In a statement, Becciu expressed, "Having at heart the good of the Church, which I have served and will continue to serve with faithfulness and love, and to contribute to the communion and serenity of the Conclave, I have decided to obey as I have always done the will of Pope Francis not to enter the Conclave while remaining convinced of my innocence." His words reflect a deep commitment to the Church, even amid personal turmoil.
The conclave is expected to draw significant attention, particularly following the recent death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. With over 70,000 faithful having already paid homage to the late pontiff at Santa Maria Maggiore, the atmosphere in Vatican City is charged with emotion as preparations for the conclave proceed.
Becciu's conviction is tied to a scandal regarding the sale of a luxury building in London valued at 200 million euros, a case that has captured headlines and raised questions about financial governance within the Vatican. Following the conviction, Pope Francis accepted Becciu's resignation as prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in September 2020, stripping him of many of his rights associated with the cardinalate while allowing him to retain the title of cardinal.
Despite his legal troubles, Becciu had maintained a public presence in Vatican events, often attending services and gatherings. However, his participation in the conclave became a contentious issue until he formally announced his decision to step back. Reports indicate that two letters from Pope Francis, one dated 2023 and another from March 2025, explicitly excluded Becciu from the conclave, a fact that has added layers to the ongoing narrative surrounding his legal and ecclesiastical status.
As the sixth Congregation of Cardinals convenes in Vatican City, discussions about the future leadership of the Catholic Church are underway. Cardinal Louis Raphael I Sako has indicated that he has clear ideas about whom he intends to support in the conclave, which he anticipates will be brief, lasting only two or three days.
"There is a fraternal atmosphere among us, and a sense of responsibility as we prepare to make a significant decision for the Church's future," Sako stated as he entered the Congregation. The conclave will see 135 voting cardinals from 71 countries, with the youngest elector being 45-year-old Mikola Bychok from Australia and the oldest being 79-year-old Carlos Osoro Sierra from Spain.
In the days leading up to the conclave, the Sistine Chapel has been closed to the public as preparations are made to transform the space for the election of the next pope. This includes logistical work involving engineers and technicians to ensure that the chapel is ready for the cardinal electors.
As the Church navigates this pivotal moment, the implications of Becciu's absence from the conclave will undoubtedly be felt. His decision to obey the Pope's wishes, despite his claims of innocence, speaks volumes about the complex interplay of faith, duty, and accountability within the Church's hierarchy. Becciu's case has sparked discussions about the need for reform and transparency in the Vatican's financial dealings, a sentiment echoed by various cardinals as they prepare to elect a new leader.
The conclave is not just a moment of transition; it is a reflection of the Church's ongoing challenges and the hope for renewal in leadership. As the cardinals gather, the world will be watching closely, eager to see who will emerge as the 267th pope and how they will address the pressing issues facing the global Catholic community.
With the conclave just days away, the anticipation builds, and the faithful continue to gather in prayer and reflection, seeking guidance and strength as they await the next chapter in the Church's storied history.
