We’re in an in-between time in the life of the Church. Pope Francis has died and is being mourned. His funeral Mass was celebrated in Rome with dignitaries from around the world joining hundreds of thousands who gathered. We find ourselves suddenly saying goodbye to the shepherd who has loved us and led us so uniquely for the past twelve years.
Now we are left a bit uneasily uncertain without a pastor. Who will lead the Church? What will he be like? Some desire the church to go this way, or that way. Some want to see change, while others fear change that may come. Media pundits offer thoughts on who could be chosen, but usually such speculation is wrong.
It is up to the Holy Spirit flowing through the hearts of the Cardinals in the Sistine Chape to discern what is best for Christ’s Holy Church at this time.
The conclave begins this Wednesday, May 7, and it is very possible that there will be a new Pope to be prayed for at our parish Masses next Sunday. Pope Frances’ election took a little over 24 hours back in 2013, and modern conclaves typically last no more than a few days.
This is a time for prayer. Each of us must pray. We pray at Mass when we gather as a parish, and we must pray as families, and individuals. Come Holy Spirit Come! Enlighten the hearts of all who participate in the Conclave. Grant the Cardinals the gifts of the Holy Spirit - Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety, and Fear of the Lord as they prayerfully discern the next Shepherd of the Church. Come Holy Spirit Come!
Fr. Deziel
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