Today is an historic day. Today, the cardinals of our church commence the conclave to elect the next Pope. Their objective is simple in essence, yet complex in the detail.

Until the famous words ‘Habemus Papam’ ring out, the world’s eyes will be drawn to the Sistine Chapel chimney, watching for the smoke: black for ongoing deliberation, white for a Pope elected. It is right to raise our eyes and hearts at this moment, but today’s Gospel (John 6:35-40) bids us raise them higher still. 

As the smoke ascends, let us hear Christ’s declaration: ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.’ (John 6:35) The Pope, clergy, and all God’s people have vital work: bringing others to Christ. Like the disciples distributing the loaves and fish (cf. John 6:1-15) we bring our offerings and share the food. Yet, it is the Lord who provides the true, life-giving meal. 

This is Christ’s Church, demanding trust and humility. ‘Everything that the Father gives me will come to me,’ Jesus assures us, ‘and anyone who comes to me I will never drive away.’ (John 6:37) His mission is clear: ‘I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day.’ (John 6:39)

Let us pray intensely for the cardinals, especially the man who will emerge as the Vicar of Christ. May he faithfully lead us on our heavenward pilgrimage towards the true High Priest (cf. Hebrews 4:14), the risen Christ, in whom all authority rests. Amen.

by Fr Michael Grace