As the papal conclave unfolds, older cardinals, although unable to vote, provide valuable insights into the proceedings influencing the future of the Catholic Church.
**Insightful Perspectives from Elder Cardinals During the Papal Conclave**
**Insightful Perspectives from Elder Cardinals During the Papal Conclave**
Elder cardinals share their reflections on the ongoing conclave as younger counterparts cast votes for the new pope.
As younger cardinals actively participate in the papal conclave to elect a new leader, those aged 80 and above, who are barred from voting, are contributing in different ways. Cardinal Domenico Calcagno, an Italian and an elector during Pope Francis's election, reflects on the critical role of discussions held among cardinals at their guesthouse, Casa Santa Marta. While they may not cast ballots, their conversations carry weight in shaping opinions leading up to the election.
One of the notable figures, Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, age 82, expressed admiration for the articulate presentation by Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline from Marseille, who has emerged as a leading candidate in the conclave. Speaking in near-flawless Italian, Aveline impressed his peers and showcased his candidacy with a speech that only faltered on two accents, according to Ravasi. Meanwhile, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo from the Democratic Republic of Congo, aged 65, was also singled out for delivering a compelling address.
The conclave consists of multiple voting rounds each day, where cardinals aim for a two-thirds majority to elect the new pope. Cardinal Calcagno shared insights about how the initial ballots serve as a test of potential candidates, suggesting that strategy and negotiation are essential components of the process. He characterized the first vote as a "dress rehearsal," leading to shifts in support among candidates as elated discussions take place over shared meals.
Cardinal Calcagno also noted that cardinals forgo breaks during intense voting sessions, focusing on the sacred nature of the process. Despite their elder status, they navigate the intricate dynamics of the conclave, offering unique perspectives and fostering communal bonds as they await the moment that will usher in new leadership for the Catholic Church.
