This morning, during a meeting with journalists, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, announced the following:

This morning, at 9.00, the Third General Congregation of the Cardinals took place in the New Synod Hall.

The work began with a moment of prayer. During the Congregation, the Cardinals who had not already done so gave their oath, in accordance with the provisions of the Apostolic Constitution Universi Dominici Gregis.

There were 113 cardinals present. During the session, 34 interventions were recorded. There was a break from 10.40 to 11.10, and the work concluded at 12.00.

During the meeting, a variation regarding the celebration of the sixth day of the Novendiali was announced: the Holy Mass will be celebrated by Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, and not by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, as previously indicated.

In addition, the names of two ecclesiastics were given, responsible for offering the meditations in accordance with Universi Dominici Gregis.

The first reflection, to take place at the beginning of next week, will be entrusted to Dom Donato Ogliari, O.S.B., Abbot of Saint Paul-Outside-the-Walls.

The second reflection, which will open the Conclave, will be held by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, O.F.M. Cap.

During the session, the first chapters of Universi Dominici Gregis were read.

At the end, after several interventions, there was a shared reflection on the Church and the world. The next Congregation is to be held tomorrow, at 9.00.

It is also communicated that the Rosary at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major this evening will be led by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, whereas tomorrow’s will be presided over by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa. The Rosary on Saturday, which will again be held outside the Basilica, will be led by Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas.

According to the competent authorities, more than 61,000 people have come to Saint Peter’s Basilica, from 11.00 yesterday morning until 13.00 today, to pay their respects to Pope Francis.