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Oscar-Winning Film “Conclave” Sees Viewership Surge Amid Vatican Preparations
As the Vatican gears up for the intricate process of electing a new pope, many individuals worldwide are seeking insights into papal elections, also known as conclaves. An Oscar-winning film, “Conclave,” is experiencing a surge in popularity as viewers aim to understand the inner workings of this secretive procedure.
Following news of Pope Francis’s passing, the film “Conclave” witnessed a significant increase in viewership across various streaming platforms, as reported by Luminate, an entertainment data analytics firm.
Focus Features
Edward Berger’s drama offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the Vatican’s confidential election of a pope. The narrative intensifies with power-hungry cardinals, portrayed by actors such as Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow. The film delves into the complexities of papal succession and Vatican procedures. (Focus Features, a division of NBC News’ parent company, Comcast, distributes the film.)
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Procession Begins: Transferring Pope Francis’ Body to St. Peter’s Basilica
Solemn bells resonated as a procession of patriarchs, cardinals, archbishops, canons, and other clergy members emerged from the Casa Santa Marta, carrying the body of Pope Francis.
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The procession will proceed through Santa Marta Square and the Square of the Roman Protomartyrs towards St. Peter’s Square, passing under the Arch of the Bells before entering the Basilica through the central door.
The public will be granted the opportunity to pay their respects starting at 11:00 a.m. (5:00 a.m. ET).
Second General Congregation Scheduled Following Transfer of Pope Francis’ Body
A second General Congregation is slated for this afternoon in Vatican City after the transfer of Pope Francis’s body to St. Peter’s Basilica.
These congregations represent a daily meeting of the College of Cardinals, currently governing the Vatican, to coordinate the funeral arrangements and forthcoming conclave. The previous day saw 60 cardinals convening in the Synod Hall for discussions. Key discussions involve the selection of a new pontiff and Vatican administration during the *sede vacante*.
A Look Inside the Gelato Shop Favored by Pope Francis
NBC News correspondent Tom Llamas visited “Hedera,” a well-regarded Rome establishment renowned for its delectable desserts, including homemade gelato and award-winning cakes. Notably, it became one of Pope Francis’s preferred destinations for a sweet treat.
Pope Francis’ Body Moved to St. Peter’s Basilica: Public Viewing Begins
This morning, Pope Francis’s body will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica in advance of his funeral on Saturday. The viewing will be open to the public, allowing worshippers to pay their respects to the first Latin American pontiff. The transfer signifies the commencement of official mourning rituals.
Estimates regarding the potential number of visitors vary. However, in 2005, over two million mourners reportedly queued to view Pope John Paul II’s body, according to figures from the Italian Civil Protection agency.
Pope Francis’s Death: Catholic Church at a Crossroads
The passing of Pope Francis leaves the Catholic Church facing pivotal questions regarding its future direction. His tenure was often characterized by progressive initiatives. The selection of his successor will significantly influence the Church’s path forward.
According to Elijah Smith, who transitioned from Lutheranism and Southern Baptism, Pope Francis’s emphasis on social justice and inclusivity played a significant role in his decision to embrace Catholicism a year prior.
“He led by example,” remarked Smith, 22, a college student from Rockwell, North Carolina. “He was very accepting – accepting of the LGBTQ community, accepting of immigrants, and understanding of various cultures.”
Following Francis’s death at 88, the Catholic Church stands at a crossroads. After 12 years under his leadership, will the Church sustain its progressive trajectory, fostering new followers through inclusivity, or will it revert to more traditional foundations amid calls for doctrine rooted in conservative customs and liturgy?
For centuries, the Church’s traditional Mass was conducted in Latin, with priests facing the altar, their backs to the congregation. These practices persisted until the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s sought to modernize rituals. Changes included conducting Mass in local languages and incorporating laypeople into service readings.
However, in 2007, Francis’s predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, eased restrictions, permitting the reinstatement of Latin Mass celebrations.
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