Vacant See: The Congregations of Cardinals Begin Work at the Vatican

Since the beginning of the vacancy of the Apostolic See, the cardinals present in Rome will meet in two types of congregations. The general congregations are open to all cardinals present, except those legitimately unable to attend. These meetings, mandatory for cardinal electors, are optional for those who, due to their age or other criteria defined by law, are unable to participate in the election of the successor of Peter.

The particular congregations are smaller and include: the Cardinal Camerlengo, a position currently held by Kevin Farrell, and three cardinal assistants, one from each order—bishops, priests, deacons—drawn by lot from among the cardinal electors present in Rome. There were already about 60 of them on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, a number expected to grow daily.

These three cardinal assistants, whose term lasts three days, are renewed by lot, even after the election has begun. This rotation ensures fairness in the distribution of responsibilities and continuity in the management of day-to-day affairs.

The general congregations meet daily: major issues are discussed and strategic decisions are made. Presided over by the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, or in his absence by the Vice-Dean, Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, or by the most senior cardinal elector, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, according to precedence, they usually take place at the Apostolic Palace, with some exceptions.

These preparatory meetings allow the Camerlengo to gather the opinions of the College, convey essential information, and coordinate the steps leading to the election. They also provide the princes of the Church with the opportunity to express their points of view, clarify doubts, and propose initiatives.

The particular congregations focus on minor or urgent matters. More serious matters are referred to the general congregation. A strict rule guarantees the primacy of the general congregation: no decision taken in the particular congregation may be modified or annulled without the majority agreement of the general congregation. This separation of powers ensures efficient management while reserving crucial decisions for the entire College.

A key moment is the swearing-in of the cardinals: read by Cardinal Re during the first congregation on April 22, the oath commits each member to strictly respect the regulations governing the vacancy of the Apostolic See and to maintain absolute secrecy regarding everything concerning the election of the Pope or sensitive matters during the vacancy.

The formula was pronounced before the cardinals who were present, their hands placed on the Holy Gospels, and those arriving in the coming days will be required to adhere to this ritual to emphasize the importance of confidentiality and fidelity to established norms.

The general congregations that precede the election, known as "preparatory," play a crucial role in organizing the subsequent steps. They are even held during the nine days of obsequies, the “Novendiales,” for the deceased Pope, a period marked by liturgical celebrations and tributes from the faithful. Among the urgent decisions taken during these meetings will be:

– the organization of the funeral, which is set for Saturday in albis during the first general congregation;

– the logistical preparation of the conclave: to this end, a commission composed of the Camerlengo, the Secretary of State, and the President of the Governorate of Vatican City State is responsible for preparing the Casa Santa Marta to accommodate the cardinals and those involved in the conclave. The Sistine Chapel is prepared to ensure that the voting takes place in a manner that respects secrecy;

– spiritual meditations: two clergymen are appointed to deliver meditations on the challenges facing the Church and the choice of the new pope. These interventions, scheduled at specific times, are intended to inform—if not guide—the choice of cardinals, since it is often at this time that names can be proposed. This is partly where the election is decided;

– administrative management: current expenses between the Pope's death and the election of his successor are approved, the documents left by the deceased are read, and symbolic measures, such as the destruction of the Fisherman's Ring and the lead seal, are taken;

– organization of the conclave: The cardinals set the date and time for the start of voting, allocate housing by drawing lots, and ensure that all conditions are met for an orderly election.

One last detail regarding clothing. Outside of liturgical ceremonies, cardinals are required to wear specific attire during the vacancy: a black threaded cassock, a red sash, a skullcap, a pectoral cross, and a ring.