Cardinal Ribat Casts Historic Vote in Papal Conclave for PNG and Solomon Islands

Cardinal Sir John Ribat votes in the papal conclave for the first time, representing PNG and the Solomon Islands. The first round of voting did not elect a new pope, with 45,000 in St. Peter’s Square awaiting results. The conclave continues as cardinals deliberate, and the selection process remains ongoing.

Cardinal Sir John Ribat has made history by casting a vote on behalf of Catholics from Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Solomon Islands during the ongoing conclave, where a new pope is set to be elected to succeed Pope Francis. This marks Sir Ribat’s first engagement in such a significant process, as he, alongside 132 other cardinals, took an oath before entering the voting rounds. Voting began yesterday, and further ballots may continue through tonight if a successor is not yet determined.

As millions of Catholics await news of their new pope, the first round of voting did not yield an election after the initial ballot. A significant crowd, approximately 45,000 people, gathered in St. Peter’s Square expecting an announcement after 7 PM on Wednesday. However, the first update regarding the conclave did not arrive until later at 9 PM, prolonging the anticipation for updates on the papal election.

On Wednesday evening, the College of Cardinals convened deliberations, and after three hours, black smoke was released from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, signifying that no pope had been elected during the first voting round. Among the attendees at St. Peter’s Square was Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania, who voiced his perspective: “Our role here is to pray and to join with other Christians, other Catholics, to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the whole process.”

Deacon Nkoronko emphasized a need for a spiritually sound leader, asserting, “Wherever the new Pope comes from, whether it’s Africa, Asia, America, what we need is we need a holy Pope.” As the voting progresses, the College of Cardinals resumed discussions and preparations for a second vote. Thousands of spectators continue to gather outside the Vatican, holding onto hope for the reveal of the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

The current conclave involves 133 voting cardinals, who are members of the College of Cardinals and under the age of 80. The composition of the voting body can vary depending on when the conclave takes place. According to tradition, a conclave is a private and confidential assembly designed to elect a new pope. The term “conclave” derives from “cum clave,” translating as “with a key,” referencing the practice of securing the doors of the papal apartments and Sistine Chapel to ensure members do not exit until a new pope is chosen.

The papal elections occur within the Sistine Chapel, where these cardinals cast votes until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority. Upon election, the newly chosen pope will select a papal name and is introduced to the global Catholic community, marking a pivotal moment in church leadership.

In summary, Cardinal Sir John Ribat’s participation in the papal conclave represents a significant milestone for the Catholic faithful of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. As the voting rounds progress, the expectation remains high for the election of a new pope. The conclave’s tradition and secure environment underscore the seriousness of the process, with many looking for a leader who can guide the church through its next chapter.

Original Source: www.postcourier.com.pg