The Catholic world is anxiously awaiting an important event - the upcoming conclave. It is a secret meeting of cardinals, where a new pope will be elected. When exactly will it begin and what is the mood among Church watchers?
Waiting and preparation
The official date for the conclave will only be announced after the current pope either dies or unexpectedly resigns. There are already signs that preparations are underway in the Vatican, quietly but actively. According to tradition, the conclave must begin no later than 20 days after the death or resignation of the Holy Father.
Although there is no clear date yet, Vatican sources suggest that the start could be this summer. However, everything depends on unforeseen circumstances and official Church announcements.
Who could be the next pope?
Prophecies and speculation are already afoot among believers and political analysts alike. Among the most frequently mentioned candidates are several cardinals from Africa and Latin America, as well as a few more unexpected names from Italy and Canada.
Some Church observers believe that this time a pope from the so-called "global south" - the African or South American continents - may be elected, in order to demonstrate the Church's globalism and increasing focus on growing regions.
In addition, some Catholic communities recall the ancient prophecies of St. Malachi, which speak of the last popes. According to their interpretations, the upcoming pontiff may be associated with great changes and even significant global challenges for the Church.
The Church faces a challenging time
Regardless of who becomes the new pope, he will have a difficult path ahead. The world is facing enormous challenges - the climate crisis, social unrest, geopolitical conflicts and internal challenges within the Church. It is believed that the new pontiff will have to be not only a spiritual guide, but also a strong diplomat.
For now, only one thing is clear: the eyes of the world are increasingly turning to the Vatican, and the upcoming conclave promises to be one of the most closely watched in the history of this century.
