Cuban Cardinal Juan García will participate in the conclave with hope, unity and guidance of the Spirit

May 6, 2025

Just hours before the election begins in Rome to choose who will be the new successor of Pope Francis, Cardinal Juan de La Caridad García Rodríguez, Archbishop of La Habana, is shaping up as the only elector from the island in the Conclave that will take place this Wednesday, May 7.

From the Vatican, the cardinal shared his impressions in an interview granted to the National Catholic Reporter newspaper, a media outlet present at the Holy See to cover this decisive and historic moment for the universal Church.

Synodality and Francis's legacy

Cardinal García stated that what predominates among the cardinal electors are not regional or political interests, but a deep conviction that it is the Holy Spirit who guides them in this process. He observed that it is a shared desire to continue the synodal legacy of Pope Francis. Synodality, which promotes a participatory and inclusive Church, which according to him goes directly back to the Gospel.

«There is a desire to maintain the legacy of Pope Francis», he said, highlighting the longing for unity and the need to continue working to sow seeds of peace in the world. «Synodality has been present for 2,000 years, because Jesus Christ called twelve apostles and sent them into the world».

The conclave as an act of faith

Likewise, he observed that contrary to what many think, the meetings prior to the conclave are not marked by maneuvering of political power, but by prayer, discernment and listening. «We believe that the Holy Spirit is there», he noted firmly.

For the Cuban cardinal, the Conclave is not a political election, but a «spiritual search shaped by the legacy of Pope Francis» where, beyond names, what matters is the process, which includes calm dialogue and divine guidance.

A profile for the future Pontiff

When asked about the type of leader the Church needs today, García was clear in pointing out that a man who is mystical, missionary, charitable and affectionate is required. A successor who continues Francis's close pastoral style. «When the Pope washes the feet of prisoners or embraces a child, he is showing the affection of Christ», he recalled.

He believes that, despite different expressions and paths, the desire for unity is deep among the cardinals. «There is a common current, a common path. It is not that it is exact, it is not uniform, but what is common is, and the desire is, that we all move forward».

A Church guided by hope

During his stay in Rome, the cardinal has been staying with the Jesuit community at Ignatius of Loyola, from there he celebrates mass and hears confessions. He did not neglect his pastoral rhythm while participating in the daily preparation sessions for the Conclave. With a serene spirit, he highlighted the holiness and commitment of many of his cardinal brothers «Missionary men, charitable men who have fully lived their faith».

Despite the great challenges facing humanity, Cardinal García remains hopeful. Convinced that among the cardinals there is a sincere desire to walk together in fidelity to the Gospel and openness to the Holy Spirit. «The one who is already chosen by God, that one will emerge», he concluded.