The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, has announced and confirmed that all 133 Cardinal electors have arrived in Rome ahead of the papal conclave set to begin on May 7, 2025.

This was announced during a briefing on May 5, 2025.

According to the Vatican News, Bruni stated that a total of 179 Cardinals, including the 133 electors eligible to vote, participated in the tenth General Congregation held earlier in the day.

He confirmed that preparations are well underway for the start of the conclave, which will take place in the Sistine Chapel.

“All 133 Cardinal electors are now present in Rome, and every effort is being made to ensure a smooth and prayerful transition into the conclave. The church stands united as it prepares to discern its next shepherd,” he indicated.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, informed the congregation that Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Farrell had conducted a lottery on Saturday afternoon to assign rooms for the electors.

All Cardinal electors will be accommodated either at the Casa Santa Marta or the adjacent old Santa Marta residence.

Bruni said that Cardinals will be able to travel from their accommodations to the Sistine Chapel via a secured route, with the option to walk.

He emphasised that all necessary logistical and security arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and solemn transition into the conclave.

During Monday’s congregation, 26 interventions were made, addressing a wide range of issues.

Topics included canon law, the role of the Vatican City State, the Church’s missionary identity, and its social mission through Caritas.

Participants also reflected on recent history, recalling the spiritual significance of prayer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Discussion also turned to hopes for the next pope. Several Cardinals voiced the desire for a shepherd close to the people, capable of fostering unity in a world facing fragmentation, war, and ecological crisis.

Other issues raised included the role of women in the Church, the importance of family and vocations, and the foundational teachings of the Second Vatican Council, particularly Dei Verbum.

“There is a deep sense of responsibility and hope among the Cardinals. Many are praying for a pope who will be close to the people, a unifying figure in a divided world,” he added.

Bruni noted that while journalists will not be permitted inside the Sistine Chapel due to security restrictions enforced by the Vatican Gendarmerie, official images of the prepared interior will be made available to the press.

Cardinals are expected to begin checking into their assigned rooms as early as Tuesday morning, marking the final phase of preparation before the conclave commences.

MRA/AE

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