Cardinals have been convening in Rome for General Congregations, with a significant number in attendance. The second General Congregation saw 103 prelates present, focusing on key decisions during the sede vacante period. They finalized the schedule for the Novendiales, a nine-day mourning period, and made arrangements for the funeral Mass. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re will preside over the funeral, while thousands have paid their respects to the late Pope Francis.
22 days ago
The College of Cardinals is currently holding General Congregations in Rome following the death of Pope Francis 1 2 5. These meetings are crucial for making key decisions during the sede vacante period 2. The second General Congregation saw a significant increase in attendance, with 103 cardinals present 2 3 4 5, nearly double the number from the initial gathering 2 3. By the third General Congregation, 113 Cardinals were present 1.
The Cardinals are actively preparing for the upcoming conclave to elect a new Pope 2. They have finalized the schedule for the Novendiales, the nine-day mourning period 2 3 5. The Cardinals also decided that Fr. Donato Ogliari and Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa will deliver the pre-conclave meditations 1. A commission of three Cardinals was selected to assist the Camerlengo in governing the Church during the sede vacante 5. All scheduled beatifications have been suspended until a new Pope is elected 5. While all 252 cardinals can participate in the General Congregations, only 135 cardinals under 80 are eligible to vote in the conclave 2 3.
The public has been paying their respects to the late Pope Francis at St. Peter's Basilica 1 2 3 5. As of Wednesday evening, approximately 20,000 people had visited the basilica 2 3 5. By Thursday, that number had risen to 61,000 1. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re will preside at Pope Francis' funeral Mass 2 3. Following the funeral, several recipients of the Church’s charitable activities will stand on the steps of the Basilica of St. Mary Major to welcome his coffin and pay their respects 1.
The term sede vacante refers to the vacancy of the Apostolic See, which occurs when there is no Pope . The Church has specific norms and procedures that apply during this period.
Here's a breakdown of the Church's teaching on sede vacante:
In summary, the period of sede vacante is governed by specific regulations that ensure the continuity of the Church's mission while respecting the unique authority of the Roman Pontiff. The College of Cardinals assumes limited governance, with emphasis on prayer and preparation for the election of a new Pope, according to established norms.