LA Catholics united in prayer at Cathedral on First Day of Conclave

Archbishop José H. Gomez celebrated a Mass for the election of a new pope today at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles where faithful gathered to pray for the Church during this historic moment.

“So today we continue to pray for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis, and we continue to thank God for his life and witness,” said Archbishop Gomez during the homily. “And as I said, in this holy Mass we especially have come to pray for his successor, for the next successor of St. Peter, the next Vicar of Jesus Christ on earth!”

The Mass concurred with the beginning of the conclave in Rome and served an opportunity for the faithful to pray together for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the election of the next Holy Father. Parishes across the Archdiocese of Los Angeles also celebrated Masses today for the election of a new Pope.

“This truly is a historic moment in our Catholic Church, and we all have our own personal responsibility in this moment. Our task is to pray, and to pray hard for the Church! As I said, especially pray for the College of Cardinals as they go thru the process of election for the new pope,” said Archbishop Gomez. “So, we ask the Holy Spirit to come and to fill the hearts of the cardinals meeting in the conclave that began this morning in Rome. We ask the Holy Spirit to guide them as they seek to select our new Pope.”

A pair of Pope Francis’ shoes were on display at the Cathedral which were a gift to Noel Diaz, founder of El Sembrador a Los Angeles-based Catholic media ministry.

“His shoes send us all a message that we, as Catholics, are to serve our brothers and sisters – serve those who are in need,” said Mr. Diaz. “During these times there are so many people who are hurting. So, we must continue the mission – continue being active and serving.”

Photos of the Mass are available at https://archdioceseoflosangeles.pixieset.com/massforthestartoftheconclave/ and livestream footage can be found at https://lacatholics.org/conclave/.

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