#conclave

Here in Rome we can feel that the white smoke is about to come. The election of the new pope is just getting closer and closer. The eyes of the entire world are watching with attention the papal smoke stack on the Sistine Chapel's roof. This city had never seen so many journalists and reporters from so many parts of the world. Pilgrims and visitors are just crowding into St. Peter's Square despite the heavy rains. Everyone is waiting with so much excitement but above all with so much hope. The white smoke will be the sign that God is present with us, that God is continuing to enter into our history in order to give us the joy and the love that we long for.

Being here in Rome I can testify that this conclave is not just politics, but is mainly a Christ-centered affair. The conclave is not an occasion for power games at all. This meeting is surrounded by prayer and by adoration to Jesus Christ because it seeks God's glory above everything else. The Holy Spirit is certainly present and I can see his presence here in Rome by seeing the unity between so many persons from so many different backgrounds and beliefs. The words of Ratzinger back in 1997 when he was asked about the Conclave are indeed enlightening: "The Holy Spirit leaves us much space, much freedom, without entirely abandoning us".

 

Yesterday I went to Mass with the cardinals and I was close to them as they were processing out. I saw smiles on their faces. They were happy to be there and they are full of trust that the Almighty God will not abandon them because they asked for his guidance during that Mass and in their personal prayers. I do not deny that the cardinals are just men, that there are politics, and that human interests are part of this election. Christ the Good Shepherd, however, is guiding his Church even through these imperfect men and He will write these days the history of our salvation straight with crooked lines!