New Zealand cardinal reflects on ‘beautiful’ Pope Francis funeral as cardinals prepare for conclave

CNA Newsroom, Apr 27, 2025 / 00:01 am

In an emotional tribute, Cardinal John Dew of New Zealand on Sunday reflected on both the late pontiff’s lasting legacy and the solemn simplicity of his funeral liturgy.

“I think for me, there was this deep gratitude for what Pope Francis has done for the Church in the 12 years that he was the Pontiff — and for the world,” Dew said in a statement released early Sunday local time.

“It’s very emotional to think of that, too, that he’s had such an effect on the world.”

The cardinal described Saturday’s funeral as “very beautifully done, very simply done,” a fitting farewell for a pope who emphasized humility throughout his pontificate.

During the nine days of mourning known as the “novendiales” — and the time headed into the conclave —, Dew explained the College of Cardinals will engage in “prayer and conversation” as they prepare for the upcoming conclave to elect Francis' successor.

Dew, whom Pope Francis elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2015, will be one of an expected 135 cardinals who will vote in this conclave.

“These will be opportunities for conversations, for people to describe the kind of person that they believe would be the right person to lead the Church, the qualities that are needed,” he said.

The prelate added that cardinals will discuss “what’s needed in the Church today and what's needed in the world today.”

Third NZ cardinal to vote in a conclave

Cardinal Dew retired as Archbishop of Wellington on May 5, 2023 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age for bishops. He is New Zealand’s fourth cardinal, following Cardinal Peter McKeefry, Cardinal Reginald Delargey and Cardinal Thomas Williams.

Dew, who turns 77 on May 5, will become the third New Zealander to participate in a papal election when the conclave begins following the conclusion of the mourning period next Sunday.