Vincent Nichols, the Archbishop of Westminster, is about to take part in his first conclave. He is the top Catholic Church official for England and Wales. He is not shy about the weight of the task ahead. Choosing a new pope is a huge responsibility. He expects a thoughtful atmosphere as the cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel. This is where the voting happens.

Nichols is 79 years old. He became a cardinal in 2014. He is part of the most diverse group of cardinals in the church's history. Most of the voting cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis. This means the group is quite modern in its thinking. Nichols met a cardinal from Rwanda. This cardinal has a lot to share about his country's struggles and the church's role in them. There will also be a cardinal from Myanmar. He lives under a military dictatorship. Nichols believes listening to these stories is crucial. They paint a picture of the global church.

The days before the conclave are a chance for cardinals to share their experiences. Nichols also talks about the need to listen to survivors of sexual abuse. He has been meeting with victims for 20 years. He calls for the church to seek outside help to address this issue. He acknowledges the church's role in the abuse and the difficulty survivors face in seeking help from within the church.

Nichols does not expect to be chosen as the next pope. He sees the role as a total surrender of one's life. The new pope will lose all privacy. His life will be dedicated to the church. Nichols jokes about the practical side of the conclave. He is not sure what will happen to his mobile phone. He uses it as an alarm clock and for prayers. He is also curious about how he will get his soccer scores. The conclave can last as long as it takes for two-thirds of the cardinals to agree on a new pope. Nichols packed extra socks, just in case.

The conclave is a serious business. Cardinals are cut off from the outside world. They stay in the Casa Santa Marta. This is where Pope Francis lived. They have no access to television, radio, or cellphones. It is a time for deep reflection and decision-making. The world watches and waits. The church's future hangs in the balance.

A New Pope: The Big Decision Awaits

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