Pope’s Successor: Hopes and Prayers in Rome for Next Leader
In the vibrant streets of Rome, across its bustling neighborhoods and where tourists flock, churchgoers gathered on Sunday to pray for the upcoming conclave that will select the next pope. Attendees at services in different parishes, including the concrete church of San Paolo della Croce and the historic Santa Maria in Trastevere, expressed their hopes for the future of the Catholic Church.
Many congregants, young and old alike, shared a desire for the next pope to be more accessible to everyday people, especially those who feel marginalized. They voiced the necessity for a leader who would emphasize compassion and peace in a world filled with challenges.
The Call for Attention to the Needy
Michele Cufaro, a parishioner, shared his hopes that the new pope will prioritize the needs of the poor and work towards eliminating hatred and violence. He even called for a re-evaluation of youth education, as many young people are straying from their paths.
The heart of the matter, as many see it, rests not just on spiritual guidance but also on tangible support for communities in need. As Cufaro reflected on his own experiences of hardship in Corviale, he recognized the importance of faith as a source of strength.
A Pope Who Understands the Marginals
Others echoed Cufaro’s sentiments, noting the importance of a pope who actively visits marginalized communities. Ida Di Giovannantonio, recalling her encounter with Pope Francis, emphasized the comfort and safety she felt in her local parish, stating, "The poor need welcoming and love.”
Further along the Tiber River in Trastevere, Lisa Remondino spoke of the hope that the next leader would continue the legacy of aiding migrants, a mission Francis championed.
Maintaining Tradition While Embracing Change
Participants in the services ranged from devoted locals to recent arrivals, all united in their hope for the church’s direction. They desired a leader who embodies both moral clarity and cultural inclusiveness, engaging with the wider society while upholding the church’s core values.
Fr. Roberto Cassano of San Paolo echoed the necessity for the church to become a beacon during these trying times, calling for a deeper connection to God amidst societal challenges.
Vision for the Future
As the cardinals prepare for the conclave, faithful congregants in Rome remain hopeful. They seek a leader who brings light in the face of difficulty and who fosters community. As Elisabetta Bonifazi highlighted, the new pope will carry significant responsibilities, especially in a world marked by turmoil.
With collective prayers and aspirations, the faithful look toward a future that promises guidance, unity, and renewed purpose within the Catholic Church.
