New pope election process: Cardinal Angelo Becciu Opts Out of Conclave to Elect New Pope
Cardinal Angelo Becciu, a senior Catholic Church official convicted of embezzlement and fraud, announced on Tuesday that he would not participate in the secret conclave to elect a new pope. Becciu was sentenced to 5-1/2 years in jail in December 2023, but he denies all wrongdoing and is free pending an appeal.
Ambiguity Over Becciu’s Participation
Pope Francis had fired Becciu from a senior Vatican job in 2020 before his trial, stripping him of the rights associated with the Cardinalate. However, Becciu was allowed to keep his ecclesiastical title and Vatican apartment, leaving ambiguity over whether he could join the conclave. Becciu cited obedience to Pope Francis’s will as the reason for his decision not to participate.
Impact on Conclave
The decision could have implications for Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, a senior Vatican official seen as a leading candidate to succeed Francis. The Becciu case centered on the Vatican’s $200 million purchase of a building in London, which was overseen by the Secretariat of State, headed by Parolin. Although Parolin has not been accused of any wrongdoing, the case may impact his chances.
Conclave Preparations
Some 135 cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to participate in the vote for the next head of the 1.4-billion-member Church. Two cardinals have cited health reasons for not participating, leaving 133 potential electors. The cardinals will decide whether to continue Pope Francis’s reformist path or adopt a more traditional approach.
Diverse Perspectives
Cardinals from around the world, including some appointed by Francis, will gather for the conclave. Some have expressed optimism about a swift conclusion, while others anticipate a longer process. Father Donato Ogliari emphasized the importance of continuing the path of dialogue, while Cardinal Gregorio Rosa Chavez of El Salvador predicted a short conclave lasting two or three days.
Still on New pope election process
Uncertainty and Expectation
The conclave’s outcome remains uncertain, with cardinals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives coming together to elect the next pope. The process may be influenced by various factors, including the legacy of Pope Francis and the challenges facing the Catholic Church.
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