VATICAN LOOP: Historic number of electors creates problem

THURSDAY, APRIL 24 - EXCLUSIVE VATICAN COVERAGE RECORD NUMBER OF ELECTORS CREATES LOGISTICS PROBLEM  A record 135 cardinal electors are set to gather in Rome to choose the next Pope. The historic number of electors appointed by Pope Francis creates a logistical problem for the conclave — particularly the capacity of the Vatican residence built to host them. READ CARDINALS SET 9-DAY MOURNING SCHEDULE  The College of Cardinals in Rome has finalized the liturgical schedule for a nine-day period of mourning, known as the Novemdiales, following the death of Pope Francis. This time-honored tradition will begin with the Holy Father's funeral Mass on Saturday.  READ CARDINAL PIZZABALLA ASKS FLOCK IN JERUSALEM FOR PRAYERS  Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, gave an inspiring message to his flock just before heading to Rome for the conclave: "I am sure that your prayers, all together, will lead to the right choices for the good of the universal Church."  READ A GLOSSARY OF KEY CONCLAVE TERMS As the Catholic Church begins the sacred task of choosing a new pope, CatholicVote wanted to provide you with a clear overview of key terms surrounding the upcoming conclave. Use this glossary to deepen your understanding of this pivotal moment in Church history. READ THE CONTROVERSIAL LEGACY OF THE SYNOD ON SYNODALITY  The Synod on Synodality was the centerpiece of Pope Francis' efforts at reform. To some, it was a welcome release of zeal opening the door to progress. To others, it seemed only to open a Pandora's box of confusion and doctrinal instability. Here's a full consideration of the legacy of the Synod. READ THE BEST SOURCE FOR EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE FROM THE VATICAN  We're working around the clock to get you the best and most up-to-date coverage from the Vatican throughout this historic time. Help make sure everyone gets the most out of our on-the-ground reporting and analysis by forwarding this edition of the LOOP to friends or inviting them to sign up at CatholicVote.org/Pope. STAY IN THE LOOP ARCHBISHOP PRAISES HOW POPE FRANCIS SPENT HIS FINAL DAYS  Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami has offered a moving reflection on the Holy Father's life, legacy, and final days. "We could say that Pope Francis 'died with his boots on,'" Archbishop Wenski said. READ POPE FRANCIS' COFFIN TO BE SEALED FRIDAY  On Friday evening, the Vatican will hold a solemn liturgical rite to seal the coffin of Pope Francis, bringing to a close the days of public mourning that have seen tens of thousands of faithful pass through St. Peter's Basilica. READ REVERENCE  See thousands of faithful Catholics wait in line at St. Peter's Basilica to bid a final farewell and pay their respects to Pope Francis as he lies in state. VIEW & SHARE Paid for by CatholicVote Civic Action, a 501(c)(4) organization. Update your email preferences or unsubscribe here. CATHOLICVOTE  |  PO Box 3310  |  Carmel, IN 46082  |  (317) 669-6127