The 'Pro Eligendo Pontifice' Mass is the prelude to the conclave. It is a liturgical celebration that calls upon the Holy Spirit to enlighten the cardinal electors as they prepare to vote. The mass also serves to express the unity of the Church.
For this reason, participation is not limited to cardinals under the age of 80 (the voting age); the entire College of Cardinals takes part, accompanied by the People of God—meaning any faithful who wish to attend are welcome.
This Mass is typically celebrated, as in this case, on the same morning that the conclave begins, and is held in St. Peter’s Basilica.
It is presided over by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, currently Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, regardless of the fact that he is over 80 and therefore ineligible to vote.
In 2013, the Mass was celebrated on March 12 at 10 a.m., one day before Pope Francis was elected. It was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, the former Dean of the College of Cardinals, who passed away in 2022.
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Trans. CRT
