Cardinal wants more reform and a continuation of tradition, "It cannot be a question of repeating Pope Francis"

According to former Curial Cardinal Giuseppe Versaldi, a Pope after Francis must both continue the Church's tradition and implement necessary reforms. A new head of the Church will do this in his own style, Versaldi said Monday morning on his way to the Cardinals' Assembly in the Vatican. 

It cannot be a question of repeating Pope Francis. 

Versaldi, formerly head of the Vatican's Congregation for Education, is himself too old at 81 to vote in the conclave.

The people's sympathy after the death of Pope Francis is understandable, but also normal. The death of every pope brings grief and sympathy. But history does not repeat itself; it must continue. Especially in light of the current crises, the Church must continue to advocate for peace and dialogue. Francis, he said, championed this, as did previous popes. And the new one will also do so with his own emphasis.

The atmosphere at the Cardinals' meetings

The atmosphere in a Conclave, as well as in previous Cardinals' assemblies, is difficult to explain and different from what many believe. "In the diversity of those present, in debate and empathy," the cardinals sought the good of the Church, but above all, of the world.

At the general congregations, the so-called pre-conclave, which began last week, the cardinals gathered in the Vatican are discussing the state of the Church. They are discussing their assessments of the pontificate so far and the challenges they see ahead for the Catholic Church. At the end of the meeting, they will also discuss what profile a new pope should have.

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at the age of 88. According to canon law, the election of a successor should begin between the 15th and 21st day after the pope's death, i.e., between May 5 and 12. (KNA)

Note: It has now been announced that the conclave to elect the new pope will begin on May 7. The Vatican announced this on Monday afternoon.

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