The stage is set for one of the most significant events in the Catholic world as all 133 cardinal electors have arrived in Rome ahead of Tuesday’s conclave to elect the next Pope. The Vatican confirmed the completion of preparations Monday as the College of Cardinals held its tenth and final General Congregation meeting, marking the end of deliberations before the sacred voting process begins.

A total of 179 cardinals participated in Monday’s session, with 26 offering formal interventions about critical issues facing the global Church. Their discussions covered wide-ranging topics including the Church’s missionary identity, protecting the poor through Caritas initiatives, promoting unity amid divisions, and the evolving role of women in Church leadership. The cardinals also addressed pressing global concerns like ongoing wars, environmental stewardship, and the transmission of faith to younger generations.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, revealed that rooms at Casa Santa Marta and the adjacent old Santa Marta residence have been assigned by lottery to house the electors during the conclave. The historic process will see the cardinals walk along a secured route to the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s famous frescoes will witness their solemn deliberations.

Vatican officials have nearly completed technical preparations for the conclave, with the Sistine Chapel now off-limits to all but the electors and essential personnel. While journalists face new access restrictions, the Holy See Press Office has promised to release official images of the chapel interior. Matteo Bruni, the Press Office director, confirmed the intense media interest reflects the global significance of this papal election.

The cardinals’ discussions revealed particular emphasis on implementing the teachings of Vatican II, especially regarding Scripture as spiritual nourishment. Several interventions referenced Dei Verbum, the landmark document on divine revelation, suggesting this might influence the next papacy’s direction. Other cardinals highlighted lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic about the power of communal prayer during crises.

As Rome buzzes with anticipation, security measures around Vatican City have visibly intensified. The Swiss Guards and Vatican Gendarmerie have established multiple checkpoints, while technicians conducted final tests on the famous chimney that will signal the election results to the world. Local businesses report unusual crowds of pilgrims and journalists filling hotels and cafes near St. Peter’s Square.

Church analysts note this conclave occurs during particularly turbulent times globally, with multiple conflicts, climate challenges, and declining religious participation in Western nations. The depth of discussion during the General Congregations suggests the next pope may need to address both internal Church reforms and external crises simultaneously.

The conclave’s opening on May 7 will follow strict centuries-old traditions, beginning with the “Extra omnes” command clearing the Sistine Chapel of all non-electors. Cardinals will then take their oath of secrecy before casting the first ballots. While no clear frontrunner has emerged publicly, Vatican observers note intense behind-the-scenes discussions about whether the next pope should come from Europe, the growing churches of Africa and Asia, or the Americas.

As the world waits, the atmosphere in Rome mixes solemn prayer with palpable excitement. At St. Peter’s Basilica, pilgrims from across the globe have been lighting candles and offering prayers for the cardinals’ discernment. The famous Bernini colonnade now serves as a gathering point for faithful hoping to witness history when white smoke eventually rises from the chapel chimney.

With all players now in position and preparations complete, the Catholic Church stands at a historic crossroads. The coming days will determine not just who leads the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics, but what direction the ancient institution takes in facing modern challenges. As Romans say during these special times – “Siamo in attesa del fumata” – we await the smoke.