All 133 cardinals voting in conclave are now in Rome – Vatican

On Monday, May 5, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, announced that 179 Cardinals, including all 133 Cardinal electors, are now in Rome in preparation for the conclave scheduled to commence on May 7.

During the tenth General Congregation, the Cardinal electors participated in the proceedings, and Bruni confirmed that all are now gathered in anticipation of the papal election.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, informed the assembly that Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell conducted a lottery on Saturday afternoon to assign rooms for the Cardinals. The electors will be accommodated at the Casa Santa Marta and the adjacent old Santa Marta residence. Bruni noted that they will have the freedom to travel to the Sistine Chapel, including on foot, using a secure route.

On Monday morning’s Congregation, 26 interventions were made on a diverse range of topics. The discussions covered the role of canon law and the Vatican City State, the missionary essence of the Church, and Caritas’ advocacy for the poor. Additionally, the significant presence of journalists underscored the enduring relevance of the Gospel in the contemporary world, serving as a call to responsibility.

Speakers reflected on the collective prayer during the COVID-19 pandemic, viewing it as a source of hope amidst global fear. Regarding the upcoming election of the next Pope, many expressed a desire for a shepherd who is close to the people and capable of fostering unity in a world plagued by crises and divisions. Other concerns raised included challenges in transmitting faith, environmental stewardship, war, and societal fragmentation. Internal divisions within the Church were also discussed, along with the role of women in the Church through the lens of synodality. Vocations, family values, and children’s education were also topics of conversation, with references made to documents from the Second Vatican Council, particularly Dei Verbum, emphasizing the significance of the Word of God.

Bruni highlighted the efforts being made to ensure that all Cardinals have the opportunity to speak during the General Congregations. Preparations for the Sistine Chapel and the Cardinals’ accommodations are nearly complete, and check-ins will commence on Tuesday morning. However, journalists will not be permitted inside the Sistine Chapel, which has already been secured by the Vatican Gendarmerie. Nevertheless, official images of the prepared venue will be released.