Just one day ahead of the 2025 conclave starting on May 7th, let us continue to pray for the Cardinals who have the responsibility to choose the next Roman Pontiff.
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Let’s look to the next stage in the life of the Church. How did this unique tradition come to be? Discover the fascinating origins of the conclave — from medieval elections marked by conflict to the carefully regulated process we know today. Learn more about the conclave here.
As the Cardinals gather to choose the next Bishop of Rome, we reflect on Pope Francis’ life and legacy as Bishop of Rome. More than a global figure, Pope Francis was first and foremost a shepherd walking among his people in the Eternal City, marked by humility, simplicity, and closeness to the faithful.
Finally, we recall Pope Francis’ unwavering defense of human life. He spoke with clarity and courage against abortion, surrogacy, and gender ideology — calling the world to uphold the dignity of every human person. Explore his strong pro-life message here.
As always, our Vatican journalists will keep you informed as we await the next successor of St. Peter.
Thank you for your continued support, and always remember: God has a plan for each of us, and He makes no mistakes,
Andreas Thonhauser
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Andreas Thonhauser is EWTN Vatican Bureau Chief. He earned a Master of Business Administration from the WU Executive Academy in Vienna and a Master’s degree in German Philology/Anglistics and Americanistics from the University of Vienna. Prior to joining EWTN, Thonhauser worked as the Director of External Affairs for a global human rights organization, and for several media outlets in Vienna, Austria.
