Litany of the Saints for Conclave 2025
Cardinal John Dew, Archbishop Emeritus of Wellington, was present in Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis. Now, he and the other cardinals prepare for the Conclave in which they will elect the next successor of St Peter.
Before leaving for Rome, Cardinal John explained that the Litany of the Saints will be sung as the cardinals commence the Conclave, calling upon the saints for their help and intercession. A friend of Cardinal John said they would pray a Litany each day before and during the Conclave for the Cardinals.
Cardinal John himself has added a recitation of the Litany of the Saints to his daily prayer. He said if other people would join him, “that would be wonderful”.
This Litany of the Saints has been prepared specifically for the intention of the Conclave and especially for Aotearoa New Zealand. It invites use of both of our spoken languages in New Zealand, as well as the language of the universal Church. It is hoped it will be prayed by many Catholics in our country.
This resource will be supplemented with a sung recording that can be used in prayer while you listen. A PowerPoint presentation, with the recording, will also be available for use in schools and other settings.
Let us unite our prayers with those of Cardinal John, his fellow Cardinals and the universal Church, that the Holy Spirit will give wisdom and insight to all those who enter the Conclave on Wednesday, 7 May.