As preparations intensify for the upcoming papal conclave, the College of Cardinals has issued a heartfelt appeal to Catholics around the world, asking for their prayers to guide the sacred process of choosing the next Pope.

In a statement released by the Holy See on Wednesday, the Cardinals—currently engaged in General Congregations in Rome—encouraged the faithful to embrace this pivotal ecclesial moment as one of grace and spiritual attentiveness.

“The College of Cardinals, gathered in Rome for the preparatory sessions of the Conclave, invites the People of God to experience this time as a spiritual journey of discernment, guided by the voice of the Holy Spirit,” the statement read.

Recognizing the weight of their responsibility, the Cardinals expressed their deep need for spiritual support: “We are keenly aware of the magnitude of our task and humbly request the prayers of the faithful to sustain us.” They emphasized that prayer is the Church’s true source of strength and unity.

In light of the serious duty before them and the challenges of the present age, the Cardinals committed themselves to becoming “humble instruments of God’s infinite wisdom and providence,” with open hearts attuned to the Holy Spirit, whom they called “the central guide of the Church’s life.”

They concluded their message by invoking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, asking her to accompany the global prayers with her maternal care and support.