Follow the conclave news and discover the behind-the-scenes of this centuries-old tradition.
As the Catholic Church prepares to elect a new pope following the death of Francis on April 21, the ninth general congregation of cardinals was held this Saturday at the Vatican. In an atmosphere mixing solemnity, negotiations, and uncertainties, May 3 was marked by intense discussions, strategic revelations, and an increasingly electric climate behind the scenes in Rome.
It is sometimes said that the Holy Spirit "makes" the election of the Pope. But God does not dictate decisions to men. He enlightens them, provided they are open to his action.
On Friday, May 2, 2025, five days before the opening of the conclave, the cardinals gathered in Rome continued their discussions amid growing tensions. The talks concern both the future direction of the Church and controversies involving certain members of the College of Cardinals.
On Thursday, May 1, 2025, in Rome, the cardinals continued their activities in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. Although no general congregation was scheduled for that day, several notable events marked the day, including liturgical celebrations, informal discussions, and developments concerning certain cardinals.
On April 30, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome held the seventh General Congregation in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. This session brought together 181 participants, including 124 cardinal electors. The meeting began at 9:00 AM with a moment of prayer and continued until 12:30 PM.
On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome held the sixth General Congregation in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. This session brought together 183 cardinals, including 124 electors, and began with a spiritual meditation given by Dom Donato Ogliari, abbot of St. Paul Outside the Walls.
On Monday, April 28, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome held the fifth general congregation in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. This session was marked by key decisions and in-depth discussions on the future of the Church.
On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome observed a pause in the general congregations, in accordance with the tradition of the Novemdiales, the nine days of mourning following the death of the pope. No formal session took place that day.
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome observed a pause in their preparatory work for the conclave, due to Pope Francis's funeral taking place that day. No general congregation or formal meeting was held.
On Friday, April 25, 2025, the cardinals gathered in Rome held the fourth general congregation in preparation for the conclave scheduled for May 7. This session brought together 149 cardinals and was marked by in-depth discussions on the funeral of Pope Francis and the upcoming challenges for the Church.
