By Katie Vasquez
While it’s ultimately up to the cardinals to pick the next successor of St. Peter, their decision will affect Catholics around the globe.
Because of this, faithful in Rome are praying for a pope who will be a shepherd to his flock.
Pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square turn to God to give the cardinal electors guidance, many taking pictures in front of the Vatican – wondering who might appear in this window next.
“I’m very excited to elect a new pope. there’s a lot of good candidates,” one of them said.
The election of a new pope will determine the future of the Universal Church – and it’s the future those in St. Peter’s Square think about when they talk about what they want to see in the next pontiff.
“I like more traditional values, so I’m looking more for unity of the whole Church, just guidance in general for the future and for the future of the whole Church … try to get a lot more younger people involved.”
Some want a Holy Father that will follow in the footsteps of Pope Francis.
“I hope for someone that is going to keep going as Pope Francis had. Hopefully there’ll be one elected very soon with lots of spirituality for the whole world, and hopefully will be in connection with all the young people,” one pilgrim said.
“A people’s pope, similar to Pope Francis, for him to understand what us Catholics and us people need. Because I believe the world needs it. We need it, the world needs this,” another said.
Others want the next successor of St. Peter to strike a different path.
“I’m hoping there will be a fresh change. Maybe this time, away from the usual norms, or maybe an Asian pope,” one man said.
But many are just looking for the right man to fill the role and lead the Universal Church.
“I don’t hope that the future pope will be Brazilian or South American,” one member of the faith explained. “I hope that it’s a person that is prepared to guide us.”
“Regardless, I hope someone who really is able to understand the needs of everyone,” another pilgrim said.
No matter their thoughts on the next pope, every pilgrim said they are excited to meet the new Holy Father for the first time in St. Peter’s Square.