The cardinals this morning decided to start the conclave on May 7th.  That morning, they will celebrate a Mass for the election of the next pope.  Then they will go into conclave (secluded from the world) and vote for the first time in the afternoon.  For the last 100 years, the cardinals have elected a new pope on the second or third day of the conclave.  So, we could have a new pope on May 8th or May 9th.

     Fr. Mike Schmitz does a great job in the video above of describing the process of electing a new pope.  I like that he emphasizes both the practical steps and the importance of prayer.

     Using our intellects to grapple with the death of Pope Francis and the election of a new pope is ok but not sufficient.  George Weigel and Janet Smith are two people I admire whose commentary I take seriously.  I also admire the reporting of Ed Pentin.  He with the help of others has put together biographies of the cardinals at https://collegeofcardinalsreport.com/.

     Besides using our intellects, please pray and not just in an intercessory way.  Meditate and contemplate.  Be in the presence of God.  Let the Holy Spirit guide you.  Pray for the cardinals that they will pay attention to the Holy Spirit.

God love you,

Fr. Jim