113 Cardinals Hold Third General Congregation at Vatican with Prayers for Pope Francis Ahead of Papal Conclave

The College of Cardinals convened for the third General Congregation at the Vatican, with 113 cardinals present. The meeting, held in the Synod's New Hall, began with prayers for the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025. The congregations are part of the preparations leading up to the conclave that will elect the next pope. Discussions during the session addressed key issues concerning the Sede Vacante period and the future direction of the Catholic Church. The gathering follows earlier congregations that saw fluctuating attendance, with the number of voting cardinals noted to be 135, though only 113 participated in this session. Meanwhile, thousands of faithful continue to pay their respects at Pope Francis's funeral chapel.