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The approaching conclave is a moment of profound significance for the Church and the world she is called to sanctify. In times of excitement and speculation, it is essential to turn to the Church’s timeless wisdom.
The papacy, instituted by Christ as the perpetual principle and visible foundation of unity, is not a political office but a sacred trust. The Roman Pontiff, as Vicar of Christ and Supreme Pastor of the Universal Church, safeguards the faith and strengthens the brethren.
In this new installment of our Five Things series, Fr. Hugh and Fr. Ambrose lead us beyond the noise, helping us approach the conclave—and the Petrine office itself—with reverence, clarity, and peace, firmly rooted in what the Church has always taught.
PART I: WHAT IS A CONCLAVE?
A lot has to happen to get from "sede vacante" to "Habemus Papam." We'll begin our series with a look at the conclave: how the process has evolved over history, the role of the college of Cardinals, and the work of the Holy Spirit in this historic process.
Watch the EpisodePART II: The Role of the Pope
Bishop of Rome. Successor of Peter. Vicar of Christ. The pope has quite a few job titles to manage. In this episode, we examine what, exactly, is expected from this supreme "servant of the servants of God."
WATCH THE EPISODEPART III: PoliticS AND the POPE
There's no way around it: we live in a hyper-sensationalized world. But viewing the papacy through this lens isn't just anachronistic--it's spiritually disquieting. In this episode, we'll offer some practical counsel about how we should think about the papacy.
WATCH THE EPISODEPART IV: Papal Authority
What are the powers (and limits) of the papal office? In this episode, we'll focus on the Pope's responsibilities as the Church's supreme legislator and steward of Church Tradition.
WATCH THE EPISODEPART V: Popes Throughout History
Popes have shaped the Church and the world. We'll close out this series with a look at some important figures in the long and colorful history of the papacy, including Gregory VII, Benedict XIV, and Pius XI.
WATCH THE EPISODEO Holy Spirit, Heavenly King, Comforter, the Spirit of Truth,
present in all places and filling all things,
come and abide in the hearts and minds of the Cardinals
of the Holy Roman Church who are gathered
for the election of a new Roman Pontiff.
In choosing a new successor of Peter and a new Vicar of Christ,
may no error infect their judgments,
may no worldly motivation stifle their freedom,
and may no fear overcome their love for the holy and spotless Bride of Christ.
Send Saint Michael, the prince of the armies of heaven
to drive far from them the Evil One and his forces
who continually assail the Holy See and her children.
May his powerful intercession cast into hell all enemies
who trouble the peace of the Church and of the Conclave of Election.
And then may the great Archangel cry out in a song of victory over all our foes
"Habemus Papam — We have a Pope! Viva il Papa — Long live the Pope!"
Amen.
Composed by a confrere of St. Michael's Abbey
The Abbot's Circle is a first-of-its-kind virtual monastery—an evolving, curated library that offers an inside look at the artistic, cultural, intellectual, and spiritual work that the Norbertines of St. Michael’s Abbey carry out each day for the praise and honor of God.
Hidden in the stillness of southern California’s desert mountains, St. Michael’s Abbey goes about a timeless and supernatural mission: the common worship of God. This is a place for all to encounter the unfathomable beauty of God and to enter into the mystery of His unrelenting love.
Against a culture in ever desperate need for beauty, St. Michael’s Abbey stands as a refuge for reverent liturgy, inspiring art, and captivating sacred music and chant. Through our work, we are laying the foundation for the sanctification of our society and a renewal in our Church.
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