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Canadian Cardinal Prepares for Conclave in Rome Following Pope Francis’s Passing

A cardinal from Guelph, Ontario, is among the 135 electors who will play a pivotal role in selecting the successor to Pope Francis after his recent death. Cardinal Thomas Collins has traveled to Rome, marking his second participation in a papal conclave.

Upon his arrival on Tuesday, Cardinal Collins began engaging in daily discussions with fellow cardinals ahead of the scheduled funeral for Pope Francis on Saturday. He noted that the dean of the College of Cardinals directs these meetings, which commence at 9 a.m. and cover various issues affecting the Church.

Following a nine-day mourning period for the late pope, the conclave will convene to elect a new pontiff. “We’re isolated from the world during this time, allowing us the serenity and peace to pray and make a thoughtful decision on whom to support as the new pope,” Collins explained.

At age 78, Collins observed that over 250 cardinals are gathered in Rome, although many of them are beyond the age of 80 and cannot vote. Elector cardinals must be under 80 to participate in the voting process.

“Every cardinal, regardless of their rank, has an equal vote,” he emphasized. “The most junior cardinals share the same weight in decision-making as the most senior.”

Before casting votes for the new pope, Collins mentioned that the cardinals engage in prayer. Votes are recorded on paper and placed into a silver bowl for counting during the conclave.

This marks Collins’ second time participating in a conclave; his first was in 2013, shortly after he was elevated to cardinal. He expressed a deeper understanding of the proceedings now, compared to a decade ago.

As one of five Canadian cardinals present, Collins reflected on the honor of representing Guelph in this significant event. Though his interactions with Pope Francis were limited, he noted the late pope’s deep compassion for the marginalized and those facing hardship.

“Pope Francis left an indelible mark during his papacy, particularly through his commitment to the poor,” Collins said. “He served as an inspiring example in his later years, showcasing strength in the face of suffering, much like Pope John Paul II did.”

Pope Francis, aged 88, passed away on Monday after suffering a stroke and subsequent heart failure.

Source
globalnews.ca