HONOLULU (KHON2) – In Rome, the Cardinals are gathering for the final time before electing the New Pope. Meetings at the Vatican have been underway since last week, and the 133 Cardinals participating in the voting have been preparing. They’re expected to take their Oaths of Secrecy before they cast their first ballots.
The Sistine Chapel has already undergone a week-long transformation following the funeral of Pope Francis. As tradition dictates, all windows in the Conclave zone are darkened to guarantee privacy, and nearly 80 access points around the perimeter were sealed with lead.
Father Mark Gantley, Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of Honolulu said it’s hard to know how long the Conclave is expected to last because of the fact, he says, that many of the Cardinals don’t know each other. If there is a clear front runner, then it could be quick. But Pope Francis appointed many cardinals from the peripheries — from remote locations. Pope Francis also chose to meet with a smaller number of cardinals for regular advice rather than the whole College of Cardinals. This is more practical, but as a result the cardinals gathered less frequently and haven’t gotten to know each other, other than those who work at the Vatican.
Father Gantley said the Conclave has relevance to the people of Hawaii.
He explained the biggest significance is that the new Pope will be appointing Hawaii’s new Bishop. Bishop Silva, the Bishop of Honolulu for the past 20 years, turned 75 this past August and was required by Canon Law to submit his letter of resignation to the Holy Father, which he did. Of course, he could still be with us another couple of years, as these things take time. Bishop Silva was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI and is in line with the bishops appointed by Pope Benedict. Pope Francis appointed Bishops of a different style. So, Father Gantley said it will be interesting to see what will happen.