Cardinal Giovanni Re —Decano of the Cardinal College, 91, or the Cardinal Bishop of greater rank – expressed his hope that tonight the Catholic world receives his new Pope.
Being more than 80 years old, Cardinal Re cannot vote in the conclave, but his influence still feels. He presided over the funeral of Pope Francis and the Mass prior to the conclave, where he pronounced the central homily and did what it seemed like a Franciscan call to assess the “diversity.”
“The unity of the Church is loved by Christ; a unit that does not mean uniformity, but a firm and deep communion in diversity, provided that the full fidelity to the gospel is maintained,” said Cardinal Re during the service.
-During a visit to Pompeya this Thursday, Cardinal Re expressed his hope that, on his return to Rome tonight, there is white smoke leaving the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, according to Sky TG24, an affiliate of CNN.
He added that the new Pope “first of all should try to strengthen faith in God in this world, characterized by technological progress.”
“From a spiritual point of view, we have noticed a certain forgetfulness of God,” he added. “Therefore, a new awakening is necessary.”
