Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York has shared practical advice for cardinals gearing up for their first conclave experience, encouraging them to “bring a book.” In a recent interview, Dolan highlighted the quiet nature of the conclave, noting, “I do,” referring to his own preparations with bags packed for the Casa Santa Marta, where the cardinals will stay during the proceedings.
The conclave, which takes place in the Sistine Chapel, requires all participating cardinal electors to pledge secrecy as they vote in strict privacy. Repeated ballots will be cast until a two-thirds majority is achieved to select the future leader of the Catholic Church.
Dolan recalled his previous experience during the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013, stating that the voting process could consume an hour or two each session, leading to long periods of anticipation. “It’s not like you’re at the edge of the seat,” he remarked about the lengthy deliberations.
In keeping with the artistic atmosphere of the chapel, Dolan plans to immerse himself in a biography of Michelangelo, as he’ll be surrounded by the artist's renowned works, including “The Last Judgment” that vividly depicts the second coming of Christ within the Sistine Chapel's solemn walls.
The conclave, which takes place in the Sistine Chapel, requires all participating cardinal electors to pledge secrecy as they vote in strict privacy. Repeated ballots will be cast until a two-thirds majority is achieved to select the future leader of the Catholic Church.
Dolan recalled his previous experience during the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013, stating that the voting process could consume an hour or two each session, leading to long periods of anticipation. “It’s not like you’re at the edge of the seat,” he remarked about the lengthy deliberations.
In keeping with the artistic atmosphere of the chapel, Dolan plans to immerse himself in a biography of Michelangelo, as he’ll be surrounded by the artist's renowned works, including “The Last Judgment” that vividly depicts the second coming of Christ within the Sistine Chapel's solemn walls.
