The College of Cardinals, currently gathered in Rome for General Congregations ahead of the upcoming conclave, has issued a heartfelt appeal to all Catholics around the world to accompany them in prayer.
The College of Cardinals gathered for their sixth General Congregation on April 29, Tuesday morning in the New Synod Hall, where 183 cardinals were present, including over 120 cardinal electors.
Asia has strengthened its influence within the Catholic Church, with 37 cardinals now part of the College of Cardinals as of April 2025, including 23 electors who will participate in the papal conclave set for May 7, 2025.
The conclave to elect the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church will commence on May 7th, 2025, following the Novemdiales Masses for the eternal repose of the late Pope Francis.
As of April 2025, Asia has become a major voice in the Catholic Church, contributing 37 cardinals to the College of Cardinals—23 of whom are electors, eligible to vote in a future papal conclave.
Following the funeral rites of Pope Francis scheduled for Saturday, April 26, cardinals under the age of 80 from around the world will gather at the Vatican in the following days to participate in the conclave to elect the next pope.
