Media coverage on the Conclave, speculation on the new Pope it can seem like information overload. Learn more on the process and your part to play.
Right Choice
So, my brother asked me the other day if I had a preferred choice for the Pope. My response to his question went something like this, ‘my preferred choice is the right choice’.
Yes, I know it sounds corny, but honestly that’s how I feel. I’m not concerned with the race or nationality of the new Pope. I pray for a shepherd to gather the wandering flock.
Pastor Pastorum
In these unpredictable times, with never ending change and a bedazzled humanity; it is important the Church has a leader that can bring unification, stability, and provide sound doctrine to its flock and the world at large. Furthermore, a leader that gives ‘hope’ amidst the chaos of wars, financial stresses and trying to live a good Christian life and raise a family against the backdrop of an ever augmented secular world.
There is much excitement in the air concerning who the next Pope could possibly be. Whilst this suspense is fascinating, I think we need not to loose sight of the importance of this monumental event.
Touching the heart of many
The Papal conclave ( which is a gathering of the College of Cardinals to appoint the Bishop of Rome, also known as the Pope) convened today to start the process of electing a new Pope. This is huge to Catholics throughout the world. With nearly 1.4 billion Catholics globally making up roughly 17% of the worlds population this is no small feat. I have to say, this event is not just huge for Catholics, because as we experienced with Pope Francis, the apostolic successor of St Peter touches the hearts of many throughout the entire world.
Since the passing of Pope Francis, Catholic masses said throughout the world have not just been praying for the soul of the Pope but also for his successor.
I also have been reciting this prayer during my private prayer time. As Catholics we believe God chooses the Pope. At this time, I pray for the Lords blessing upon each of the 133 Cardinals involved in Papal selection.
Prayer for the Successor of Pope Francis
O God, who chose your servant, in succession to the Apostle Peter as shepherd of the whole flock, look favourably on the supplications of your people and grant that, as Vicar of Christ on earth, he may confirm his brethren and that the whole Church may be in communion with him in the bond of unity, love and peace, so that in you, the shepherd of souls, all may know the truth and attain life eternal.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever.
Amen.