The Dean of the College of Cardinals has convoked the first Congregation of the Sacred College for 4th March. After this time, it will become clearer when the Conclave for the election of the new Pope will be held. So it is timely to pray that God will bless his Church with a worthy Successor of Saint Peter.
One Anglophone Cardinal, being interviewed before the Conclave in 2005 which elected Josef Ratzinger, gave his opinion that "sometimes the Holy Spirit makes a mistake" in the selection of a new Pope (I heard this remark broadcast live on television, so I can verify it was said). I think we may safely dismiss that Cardinal's dubious view as being theologically lightweight. Nevertheless, perhaps we might be permitted to think that the Holy Spirit would like to be asked for his Guidance at this time.
The College of Cardinals is responsible for electing the new Pope, but every Catholic plays a crucial role in this process, by praying for God's guidance of the Cardinals in making their selection. Make no mistake, the Cardinals need our prayers. Our prayers might make all the difference, in ways that we will never know.
This fine prayer is the Collect from the Mass for the Election of the Pope found amongst the Votive Masses of the 1962 Missal. Pray it every day:
We humbly beseech you, O Lord, that of your boundless mercy you would grant to your Holy Roman Church a Pontiff who, by his tender care of us, may ever find favour in your sight; and ever be honoured by your people, because of his good government of your Church, to the glory of your name. Amen.
