The Cardinal Electors assembled in prayerful contemplation, turning their gaze toward the luminous Face of Christ, the Head of the Church. In this sacred search, they discerned the countenance of the Good Shepherd mirrored in their own midst, asking where the imprint of Christ might be most clearly seen among them.
In docile surrender to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, their communion became an act of ecclesial obedience, and from this profound participation in the divine mystery emerged the one chosen to be the Vicar of Christ on earth.
