As the papal conclave nears, cardinals across Rome made their final public appearances during Sunday Mass, hinting at their visions for the next pope. Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline of France was seen engaging warmly with families, while Cardinal Peter Erdo of Hungary called for prayers for fellow cardinals in his homily. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo of Congo emphasized the need for a leader capable of confronting modern challenges during his Mass.
Despite their insightful messages, the leading Italian contenders—Cardinals Pietro Parolin and Pierbattista Pizzaballa—chose to refrain from public sermons, opting instead for a quiet strategy reminiscent of political frontrunners who seek to preserve their standing. In contrast, other cardinals, such as Cardinal Luis Tagle from the Philippines, had recently drawn crowds, showcasing their appeal and populist potential.
Amid conversations and Masses spanning numerous locations, the cardinal's activities allowed Vatican observers a chance to speculate on the implications of their respective messages as they gather to decide the future of the Catholic Church. The conclave begins Wednesday, with anticipation growing over who might emerge as the next pope amid shifting dynamics within the global Catholic community.
