Cardinal David urges Catholics to keep papal election spiritual

Kalookan bishop and CBCP president Pablo Virgilio 'Ambo' Cardinal David urged Catholics on Friday to keep the upcoming papal election free from politics, reminding them that it is a spiritual discernment rather than a political contest.

David described the conclave as a sacred moment rooted in prayer, humility, and collective discernment among the Church's shepherds seeking God’s will, urging Catholics to trust in the Holy Spirit and the solemn responsibility of the College of Cardinals.

He urged the faithful to support cardinal-electors through prayer rather than voicing personal preferences for candidates, emphasizing that speculation should be avoided in favor of deepening faith and hope.

Cardinal David is one of three Filipino cardinals eligible to participate in the conclave as both electors and potential candidates; the other two are Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle and Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula.

The conclave will take place on May 4 after a nine-day period of mourning following Pope Francis's funeral, which took place on April 26.