Papal Conclave Begins as Cardinals Gather for Election

Following the death of Pope Francis, global attention has turned to the upcoming papal conclave, though Church leaders and experts caution against framing the process as a political contest or predicting clear front-runners. Many American conservatives hope for a more traditional or hardline successor, but Vatican insiders and analysts note that the majority of cardinals were appointed by Francis and are unlikely to choose someone intent on reversing his reforms. Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, joining the conclave for the first time, emphasized that the election should be a spiritual discernment guided by prayer rather than external campaigning or speculation. Experts highlight that the conclave process does not align with the left-right, liberal-conservative dichotomies familiar in U.S. politics and that outside perceptions of 'papabile' often fail to predict the actual outcome. While speculation persists, the Catholic faithful are urged to support the cardinals with prayers rather than preferences, trusting in the solemn responsibilities of the Church’s shepherds. Ultimately, the selection of the next pope remains a sacred, unpredictable process, distinct from secular political frameworks.