Preparing for a New Pope

As the College of Cardinals prepares for the Papal Conclave that will begin on May 7th, Bishop Gregory Parkes is inviting Catholics and all people of goodwill to pray that God may guide the cardinals in choosing a holy pope who will lead the Church with wisdom and grace while strengthening the bonds of unity, love, and peace throughout the world.

Here are two graphics from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops that help explain the process of electing a new pope. (Click on the image to view the image full screen.)

Prayer for the Election of a New Pope

O God, eternal shepherd,
who govern your flock with unfailing care,
grant in your boundless fatherly love
a pastor for your Church
who will please you by his holiness
and to us show watchful care.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Prayer Source: Excerpt from the English translation of The Roman Missal © 2010 International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.

Photo caption: Hundreds of priests, wearing red vestments concelebrate the funeral Mass of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on April 26, 2025. (CNS photo/Pablo Esparza)