Day 3: Cardinals meet to prepare for Conclave




March 6, 2013. (Romereports.com) The big question is, when will the conclave start? As of Wednesday, a date has not been set, but the Sistine Chapel is already getting ready for the election of the next Pope. So far 51 cardinals have spoken in the so called pre-conclave. The main issues being addressed are the new evangelization, the Roman Curia and the worldwide expectations of the next Pope.  

In the first few days of the general congregation meetings, some cardinals, especially those from the U.S gave interviews to the press. But that has all been canceled now, after cardinals complained that reserved and confidential information was being discussed with the press. The Vatican's spokesperson, said that as time goes on, and the intensity of the conclave comes to life, it's natural to have less information.

FR. FEDERICO LOMBARDI
Vatican spokesman
“I'm not surprised. It's understandable that at first the information and predisposition of the cardinals would be more open. But then they see and feel the intensity of their mission and need to be sensible with information and with what they communicate.”

As of Wednesday 113 cardinal electors have arrived to Rome. The other two are expected to arrive on Thursday. In the meantime, the date of the conclave is still up in the air.

FR. FEDERICO LOMBARDI
Vatican spokesman
“The College of Cardinals is committed to having a serious, deep and unhurried preparation. Given the situation, it simply has not been the right time to vote on the date of the conclave. It's not about rushing the process or forcing it on them.”

In the meantime, all the preparations are underway at the Sistine Chapel. Wooden panels have been laid out to protect the historic floor. The two stoves are also in the Chapel. One will be used to burn the ballots. The other, with the help of chemicals, will emit black or white smoke to announce the result of each voting round.

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