Following the distribution of ballots by Diego Ravelli, the cardinals will commence the first vote, a crucial step despite the unlikelihood of a first-ballot papal election. This initial vote will reveal cardinals with significant support, informing subsequent ballots where momentum builds around leading candidates. Dinner at Casa Santa Marta provides a crucial off-stage setting for critical discussions and consensus-building among the cardinals. The process unfolds under strict secrecy, extending even to the dining staff.
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The conclave to elect a new pope will begin on May 7th. Over 180 cardinals, including more than 100 cardinal electors, have already arrived in Rome for the process. While 135 cardinals are eligible to vote, at least one has withdrawn due to health concerns, and another’s eligibility remains uncertain. Daily congregations are continuing to discuss church matters and prepare for the election, which requires a two-thirds majority vote from the cardinals present. The upcoming conclave will be particularly diverse, reflecting Pope Francis’ appointments during his papacy.
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Over 130,000 people have viewed Pope Francis lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, with many taking photos and videos despite Vatican requests for solemnity. Initially, officials did not effectively curb the use of phones, leading to criticism. Subsequently, visitors were explicitly instructed to refrain from taking photos of the late pontiff. The pope’s funeral will take place on Saturday, following a public viewing period ending Friday evening.
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Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, passed away at age 88. His papacy, marked by a humble style and focus on the poor, contrasted with his criticism of capitalism and climate change, alienating some conservatives. Despite health challenges, including a recent hospitalization, he remained active until shortly before his death. His legacy includes progressive social stances, significant Vatican reforms, and a controversial but ultimately impactful approach to the clergy sexual abuse crisis. He will be remembered for his emphasis on mercy and inclusion, though his progressive stances sparked conflict with traditionalist factions within the Church.
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Vice President JD Vance’s Vatican meeting involved an exchange with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, not Pope Francis, who is recovering from illness but recently met with other world leaders. The discussion focused on international issues, particularly humanitarian crises and the treatment of migrants, refugees, and prisoners. The Vatican emphasized the need for collaboration between the White House and the Catholic Church, alluding to past tensions. Although a brief, unreported meeting between the Pope and Vance may have occurred, the cardinal’s meeting served as the official engagement.
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After a five-week hospitalization for pneumonia and a near-fatal polymicrobial infection, Pope Francis made a surprise public appearance at the Vatican, greeting crowds in St. Peter’s Square. His improved condition, though still requiring a wheelchair and nasal cannula, showed increased mobility and vocal strength compared to his previous public appearance two weeks prior. The unannounced appearance followed a morning mass and confession, bringing cheers from the assembled worshippers. The 88-year-old pontiff’s doctors previously stated that a two-month recovery period would be necessary.
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After a five-week hospitalization for pneumonia and a severe respiratory infection, Pope Francis was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital. His medical team mandated two additional months of rest at the Vatican, advising against strenuous activities and large meetings. While appearing briefly to greet well-wishers, the 88-year-old pontiff, who had experienced several critical respiratory crises, showed signs of recovery but remains in convalescence. His doctors described the infection as complex, involving multiple microorganisms, and emphasized the importance of the extended rest period for his complete healing.
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Pope Francis, 88, will be discharged from Gemelli Hospital on Sunday after over five weeks of treatment for bronchitis. His condition was twice life-threatening, requiring high-flow oxygen, but has stabilized for the past two weeks. A “protected discharge” mandates continued medication, potential oxygen use, and at least two months of rest before resuming normal activities. While the Vatican maintains he continued his duties, this period of recovery will limit his public engagements.
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Pope Francis remains in critical but stable condition, battling pneumonia and a complex lung infection, with early kidney failure developing. Despite this, he remains alert and attended Mass, receiving supplemental oxygen and undergoing treatment. While his prognosis remains guarded due to the severity of his illness and his age, prayers and well-wishes have poured in from around the globe. His condition has spurred discussion regarding potential incapacitation and the possibility of his resignation.
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Following a week-long hospitalization for pneumonia, Pope Francis experienced a serious respiratory crisis, resulting in a more critical condition than previously reported. While remaining alert, the 88-year-old pontiff received blood transfusions to address anemia and is expected to remain hospitalized for at least another week. Although his condition is not currently life-threatening, doctors have cautioned that sepsis remains a potential complication. The Pope’s medical team is providing treatment for the pneumonia, along with associated bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
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John Q. Hosedrinker