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VATICAN CITY // Cardinals convened May 6 at the 12th and final General Congregation before the conclave, wrapping up formal addresses with topics related to religious freedom, ecumenical dialogue, and what characteristics are needed in the next pope.
“A central theme of the reflection was that of communion, indicated as an essential vocation for the new Pontiff,” the Holy See Press Office stated. “The profile of a shepherd Pope, a teacher of humanity, capable of embodying the face of a Samaritan Church, close to the needs and wounds of humanity, was outlined. In times marked by wars, violence and strong polarization, a strong need is felt for a spiritual guide who offers mercy, synodality and hope.”
Another prominent theme at the meeting, which featured 26 addresses, was “the reaffirmation that many of the reforms promoted by Pope Francis need to be continued,” the Office stated, including synodality, economic transparency, combating abuse, prioritizing peace, caring for creation, and reorganizing the Curia.
“The responsibility of the Church in these areas is deeply felt and shared,” the Office added.
Of the 173 cardinals at the meeting, 130 were electors. Their contributions included canonical questions related to the Pope’s power and reflections on ecumenical dialogue, the Council of Nicea, and the date of Easter – which this year was the same for the Catholic Church and the Orthodox.
“The martyrs of the faith were recalled, especially in those lands where Christians suffer persecution or are deprived of religious freedom,” the Office stated.
Other themes were divisions both in the Church and in society, and the importance of the missionary work of Christian initiation and formation.
The Office also said that “[a]mong the pastoral emergencies” mentioned was the importance of addressing climate change, described as a global and ecclesial challenge.
The relation between the World Day of the Poor and the Solemnity of Christ the King, which occur one week apart, was also discussed. Of particular focus was on Christ’s presence in those who are poor and on the Gospel-rooted importance of serving others.
The Office also said that the cardinals addressed “the need to make the meetings of the College of Cardinals more significant on the occasion of Consistories,” and some addresses included reflections on how cardinals should carry out their role as related to the papacy.
The Congregation ended with the reading of a statement, issued by the cardinals, that urges all parties around the world that are involved in conflicts, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East, to pursue a ceasefire and lasting peace.
The conclave will begin May 7.