In the bustling city of Rome, Catholics gathered in churches across diverse neighborhoods on Sunday to offer their prayers and hopes for the forthcoming conclave that will choose a successor to Pope Francis. From the stark concrete structure of San Paolo della Croce, overshadowed by its adjacent public housing project, to the ancient splendor of Santa Maria in Trastevere, churchgoers shared fundamental wishes for the future of the Catholic Church.
Whether young or elderly, long-time Romans or newcomers from abroad, members of the congregation expressed a united desire for the next pope to prioritize outreach towards marginalized communities and to strive for peace in an increasingly precarious world.
Michele Cufaro, a glass and metalwork artisan, expressed his yearning for a pope committed to alleviating poverty and eradicating violence. As someone once residing in the massive Corviale projects — a sprawling public housing estate notorious for its social challenges — Cufaro is intimately aware of the hardships faced by many residents. He attends church seeking the solace of higher intervention against issues beyond his control, reflecting tearfully on Pope Francis’ compassion during a 2018 visit.
For longtime local Ida Di Giovannantonio, the papal visit brought comfort during her early difficult years in the housing projects. She sees the church as a haven for the needy, embodying the hopes of welcoming and loving support. Contributions to the food bank, symbolized by a shopping cart outside the church entrance, underscore the commitment to Francis’ legacy of service to the poor.
A short distance away, in the historic and affluent enclave of Trastevere, parishioners like Lisa Remondino are hopeful that the next pope will champion the causes close to Francis’ heart, particularly in aiding migrants. Remondino, affiliated with the charity Sant’Egidio, praised the retiring pope’s fearless stance on world peace and advocacy against war.
Opinions at Santa Maria varied, yet most emphasized the need for a leader who not only upholds religious doctrine but also engages positively with contemporary society. As Mathieu Dansoko, a Malian altar server, articulated, there is a call for the next pope to bring attention to those on society’s periphery.
At the church of San Paolo, the loss of Pope Francis was described as a significant setback by the parish priest, Roberto Cassano. His visit had momentarily focused attention on the community’s marginalization, highlighting the continuing struggles faced by many. Cassano urged a return to spiritual foundations as a remedy for societal ills born from a lack of divine presence.
Cardinal Oswald Gracias, who visited the congregation despite not having voting powers due to his age, recalled the impactful legacies of previous popes. He urged members to seek divine guidance in electing a new leader suited to address today’s challenges, emphasizing the pivotal role faith plays in navigating a tumultuous world. As Elisabetta Bonifazi conveyed, the task of the next pope will require profound spiritual leadership to navigate these turbulent times.