On Monday, April 28, the cardinals gathered at the Vatican’s Fifth General Congregation to decide on the official starting date for the Conclave to elect the new Pope. According to the rite established by the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, the Conclave must begin between the 15th and 20th day after the Pontiff’s death. They have chosen May 7 as the starting point.
Meanwhile, the “novendial” masses, the nine days of prayer for the deceased Pope which began with the exequial mass presided over by Cardinal Dean Giovanni Battista Re continue and will conclude on May 4. The cardinals gather daily at 9 a.m. in congregation and at 5 p.m. for celebrations in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The 134 cardinal electors are arriving in Rome, while those over 80 — though not eligible to vote — continue to have significant influence in strategies and consensus. Among the most influential “great electors” are Schoenborn, Ouellet and O’Malley.
Meanwhile, Pietro Parolin, former secretary of state, drew attention by presiding at one of the Masses with a sober and authoritative tone, in a style that recalled that of Joseph Ratzinger in 2005.
