On May 7, 2025, a significant event unfolded at the Vatican as the Mass 'Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice' was held in St. Peter's Basilica, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. This mass marks the beginning of the conclave to elect a new pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, due to a stroke. The mass began at 10:00 AM local time and was attended by approximately 5,000 faithful, alongside 220 cardinals, both electors and non-electors, who concelebrated the ceremony.
Cardinal Re opened the mass with a poignant invocation, stating, "We are here to invoke the help of the Holy Spirit, to implore His light and strength so that the Pope of whom the Church and humanity need in this difficult, complex, and tormented turning point in history may be elected." This heartfelt plea set the tone for the day, emphasizing the gravity of the choice facing the cardinal electors.
The mass was structured to allow for a multilingual liturgy, with the first reading delivered in English, the responsorial psalm in Italian, the second reading in Spanish, and the Gospel recited in Latin. This approach not only reflects the global nature of the Catholic Church but also honors the diverse linguistic backgrounds of its members.
After the mass, the cardinal electors are expected to gather in the Sistine Chapel around 4:30 PM to begin the conclave. This will follow the pronouncement of "Extra Omnes," which signifies that no one outside the electors may remain in the chapel, marking the start of a period of intense deliberation and prayer.
Cardinal Re further elaborated during his homily on the responsibilities of the electors, saying, "This act is of maximum human and ecclesial responsibility and a choice of exceptional importance; it requires that personal considerations be set aside in favor of the will of God and the good of the Church and humanity." He underscored the need for a pope who would awaken the consciences of the faithful and guide the Church through its current challenges.
Reflecting on the role of the Church in today's society, Cardinal Re remarked, "The world today expects much from the Church for the safeguarding of those fundamental human and spiritual values without which human coexistence will not improve nor bear good fruit for future generations." His comments resonate with the Church's mission to be a beacon of hope and guidance amidst the complexities of modern life.
As the day progressed, anticipation grew among the congregants and the cardinals alike. The Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo's masterpieces, will serve as the backdrop for this historic moment. The first vote is expected to take place later in the evening, with the outcome revealed through the traditional smoke signals. A white smoke plume will indicate the election of a new pope, a moment that millions around the world eagerly await.
In preparation for the conclave, the Vatican has issued guidelines requiring members of the Cappella Pontificia who wish to participate in the Eucharistic Celebration to wear their respective choral dress and arrive at the altar of the Confession by 9:30 AM. This meticulous attention to detail reflects the solemnity of the occasion and the deep respect for the traditions of the Church.
Cardinal Re's call for unity and love among the cardinals was a central theme of his homily. He stated, "The only force capable of changing the world is love," emphasizing that the new pope must embody this principle in their leadership. He expressed hope that the cardinal electors would be "concordant in the election of the Pope that our time needs," highlighting the importance of collective discernment in this pivotal moment.
As the mass concluded, the faithful present joined in the "universal prayer or prayer of the faithful," invoking the Holy Spirit and praying for the Church and the cardinal electors tasked with this monumental decision. The prayers were offered in various languages, reflecting the Church's commitment to inclusivity and global unity.
The conclave's proceedings will be closely monitored, not only by those within the Vatican but by Catholics and observers worldwide. The anticipation surrounding the election of a new pope is palpable, as many hope for a leader who will address contemporary issues while remaining true to the core values of the Catholic faith.
In summary, the events of May 7, 2025, represent a significant chapter in the history of the Catholic Church. The mass 'Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice' and the subsequent conclave will shape the future of the Church as it seeks guidance in a rapidly changing world. With the eyes of the faithful upon them, the cardinal electors prepare to embark on a journey of prayer, reflection, and decision-making that will culminate in the election of a new pope, a leader for the Church and humanity at large.
