Guidance for the Faithful During the Nine Days of Mourning and the Election of a New Pope
The death of a pope is a deeply moving time for the Church, marked by sorrow, gratitude, and hopeful trust in the Lord. As we enter the novendiales, the nine traditional days of mourning, the faithful are called to walk together in prayerful reflection. These days are not simply a time to grieve, but an invitation to renew our faith in Jesus Christ, the true Shepherd of the Church.
During these nine days, Catholics are encouraged to participate in Mass, pray the Rosary, spend time in Adoration, and offer personal sacrifices for the Church. Mourning is not a time of despair but a season of hope, as we lift our eyes to Christ, who promises to never abandon His flock.
This is also a time of critical importance for the Church. On May 7th, the College of Cardinals will gather for the papal conclave to elect a new pope. As they enter the Sistine Chapel and call upon the Holy Spirit, the whole Church must accompany them in prayer. The conclave is not merely a human decision it is a deeply spiritual moment, one in which the future of the Church is entrusted to divine guidance. Prayer during this time is of supreme importance. We must fervently implore the Holy Spirit to enlighten and strengthen the cardinals, so that their choice may be in perfect harmony with God’s will.
A beautiful devotion during this time of transition is a Novena to the Holy Spirit.
I recommend the following prayer to be prayed daily for nine days:
"Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love. Send forth Your Spirit, and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth. O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."
Let us pray with confidence, trusting that the Lord will once again raise up a good shepherd for His flock.
Your Servant in Christ,
Father Jason C. Hage, Pastor
Mary, Mother of Our Savior, pray for us!