Cuba's Expectations for the Next Pope: Insights from Havana's Cardinal

As the conclave approaches to select the successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, Cardinal Juan de la Caridad García Rodríguez, the Archbishop of Havana, shared his thoughts on the ideal qualities for the next pontiff and the Cuban Church's hopes for this pivotal event. The conclave is set to begin on Wednesday, May 7, at the Vatican, bringing together cardinals from around the globe to choose the 266th successor of Saint Peter and the 267th Bishop of Rome.

In a conversation with the National Catholic Reporter, 76-year-old García emphasized that the pre-conclave meetings are deeply spiritual rather than politically driven or focused on regional alliances. "The conclave and the general congregations are acts of faith," he stated. "We believe that the Holy Spirit is present."

The cardinal highlighted the need to continue Pope Francis's legacy, particularly concerning synodality, which is seen as an inclusive approach to journeying together within the Church. "There is a desire to expand on what Pope Francis left with his life, his words, and his examples," he remarked. "A desire to reach out to others, who are ultimately Christ, and a longing for the much-needed peace across the world."

Regarding the next Pope's profile, García expressed that he should be "a mystical, missionary man of charity, a synodal successor, with a deep care for people, as everyone around the world needs affection."

Cardinal García also stressed that despite linguistic, cultural, or pastoral differences among the cardinals, there is a shared aspiration for unity and the continuation of Francis's spiritual legacy. "We are united, all cardinals together on a common path, aspiring to the same goals," he affirmed.

During his time in Rome, García is staying at the Jesuit residence at Saint Ignatius of Loyola, where he celebrates Mass and hears confessions. His close connection with the Jesuit community underscores his dedication to a Church that is close to the needy, a trait he hopes will be strengthened in the upcoming pontificate.

The Cuban cardinal's involvement in this significant process is a source of pride for the island's Catholic community, which sees his participation as a testament to the vitality and commitment of the Church in Cuba to the universal Church's future.

Pope Francis passed away in Rome at the age of 88. In the hours following his death, the Vatican released his spiritual testament, written in 2022, in which he expressed his wish to be buried in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, a significant site he visited before and after each apostolic journey. For his funeral, held on Saturday, April 26, over 200,000 people gathered in Saint Peter's Square and the Via della Conciliazione from early morning. During the Mass, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, his dedication to peace, care for the poor, and closeness to the people were remembered. Prayers were offered in several languages, including Chinese, marking a first in papal funerals.