A farewell full of meaning
The media has recently been flooded with images and stories about the rituals that have surrounded the death of Pope Francis, as well as the conclave that his successor has chosen. These ceremonies not only reflect mourning, but also the continuity of an ancient institution.
Transition rituals
The time of the Pope’s death was marked by the solemn certification of his passage to the other world, an act performed by the Cardinal Camarlenc in the presence of members of the Holy See. One of the highlights was the exequial mass, which took place in the iconic Plaza de Sant Pere, chaired by the Dean of the College of Cardinal, Giovanni Battista Re.
Colors and symbols
One aspect that caught his attention was the choice of red color by exequias, a tradition that, although little known outside of Rome, is deeply significant in the context of papal ceremonies. The deceased pope was dressed in a red hill and a white miter, thus symbolizing its function as a metropolitan.
The new Church leader
The conclave that followed began with the Mass PA Eligendo Pontifical, a moment of supplication and reflection. The cardinals gathered in the Paulina chapel, dressed in a choral habit, to start a procession to the Sistine Chapel, where the choice would take place.
Invoking the Holy Spirit
During the procession, the cardinals sang the litany of the saints, followed by the Veni Creator Spiritus, a song that seeks the divine guide at the time of the decision. This act of faith culminated in a solemn oath, where each cardinal promised loyalty, playing the book of the Gospels.
The time of truth
After the oath ceremony, the master of ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, spoke the words ‘Extra Omnes’, marking the moment when the outside world closed behind the Sistine Chapel’s doors. Only the Cardinals constituted, prepared for a moment that would define the future of the Church.
Final reflections
Prior to the election, Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa offered a spiritual reflection, emphasizing the importance of this moment not only for the Church, but also for the global community. Thus, the process of selecting the new pope is not only a religious event, but also a reflection of the hopes and expectations of a constantly changing world.