Vatican City – The 113 Cardinals currently in Rome convened for their third General Congregation on Thursday morning, making key decisions in the lead-up to the papal conclave. The assembly announced the individuals who will deliver the crucial pre-conclave meditations intended to guide the electors.

It was decided that Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández will celebrate the Mass on the sixth day of the Novemdiales, a period of nine days of mourning, stepping in for Cardinal Kevin Farrell.

Furthermore, the Cardinals agreed on the speakers for the two pre-conclave meditations. Fr. Donato Ogliari, O.S.B., the Abbot of St. Paul Outside the Walls, will deliver the first meditation on Monday.

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The second meditation, scheduled for the beginning of the conclave, will be given by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, the Preacher Emeritus of the Papal Household.

The start date for the conclave itself has yet to be determined.

During the General Congregation, the Cardinals also initiated a discussion centered on the relationship between the Church and the contemporary world. They have scheduled their next meeting for Friday morning at 9:00 AM to continue this important dialogue.

Meanwhile, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, provided an update on the public outpouring of grief following the passing of Pope Francis. As of 1:00 PM on Thursday, an impressive 61,000 people had paid their respects to the late Pontiff at St. Peter’s Basilica. Bruni indicated that the Basilica would close at midnight on Thursday, unless a significant number of people were still waiting in line to enter.

Looking ahead, a Rosary will be held in front of the Basilica of St. Mary Major on Saturday at 9:00 PM, following Pope Francis’s funeral, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 26th. Mr. Bruni clarified that the burial service for the late Pope will be a private affair.

Starting on the morning of Sunday, April 27th, the faithful will be able to visit the tomb of Pope Francis at the Marian Basilica, providing an opportunity for continued remembrance and prayer. The preparations for the conclave and the outpouring of public mourning underscore the significant moment in the Catholic Church as it transitions to elect a new leader.