A Call to Prayer for the Conclave

To all Priests, Deacons, Religious, and Laity of the Archdiocese of New Orleans:

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

As you may be aware, the College of Cardinals has announced that the Conclave to Elect the next Pope will begin May 7, 2025. The cardinals have asked for the faithful and all people of good will around the world to pray for them that their discernment and selection be inspired by the Holy Spirit.

I ask you to please join me in daily prayer for the conclave. To facilitate this spirit of prayer, please see below a “Prayer for the Election of a Pope.”

Prayer for the Election of a Pope 

O God, eternal shepherd, 

who govern your flock with unfailing care, 

grant in your boundless fatherly love 

a pastor for your Church 

who will please you by his holiness 

and to us show watchful care. 

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, 

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, 

God, for ever and ever.

 
For those of you in parish ministry, please consider including this intercession in your Sunday and daily Masses through the conclave:

For the College of Cardinals,
That the Holy Spirit may guide them in the election of the new Pope and give strength and consolation to the one who is chosen, we pray to the Lord.
 
As we continue to observe the Novemdiales, the nine days of praying for the eternal repose of Pope Francis after his funeral, let us together ask the Holy Spirit to pray for our Church and for his successor.

Wishing you God’s blessings in this Easter season and with gratitude for your ministry, I am,

Sincerely in Christ,
 
Most Reverend Gregory M. Aymond
Archbishop of New Orleans