Cardinals Gather for Pre-Conclave Mass at St. Peter's Basilica

Cardinals attended a final Mass at St. Peter's Basilica on Wednesday before the start of the conclave to elect Pope Francis's successor. Led by Dean Giovanni Battista Re, the Mass focused on seeking wisdom and understanding for the 133 cardinals before their voting session in the Sistine Chapel.

Cardinals convened at St. Peter's Basilica on Wednesday to participate in a final Mass ahead of the conclave scheduled to choose the next leader of the Catholic Church.

This Mass marks the outset of the secretive, ceremonial process to appoint Pope Francis's successor following his unprecedented pontificate.

Dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, officiated the Mass, petitioning for wisdom, counsel, and understanding among the 133 cardinals before they proceed to the Sistine Chapel to commence the voting process.