Summary of "Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 9" – The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Release Date: May 7, 2025

In the ninth installment of the "Novena for the Papal Conclave," Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners through a day of prayer, reflection, and spiritual preparation as the Catholic Church anticipates the selection of a new pope. This episode seamlessly intertwines scripture, heartfelt prayers, and insightful commentary to foster a deeper connection with the Church's leadership process.

Opening Invocation

The episode commences with a solemn invocation, setting a prayerful tone for the day:

"We begin day nine of our novena. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
[00:00]

Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of collective prayer, uniting believers in their hopes for the Holy Spirit's guidance during the conclave.

Scripture Reading

A pivotal moment in the episode is the reading of St. Paul’s letter to the Romans, which underscores the unity and diversity within the Church:

"For as in one body, we have many members, and all the members do not have the same function. So we, though many, are one body in Christ and individually members of one another."
Romans 12:4-5
[00:30]

Fr. Mike reflects on this passage, drawing parallels between the Church's diverse members and the Cardinals tasked with electing a new pope. He highlights the collective responsibility and the unique roles each member plays in fostering a unified faith community.

Prayer for the Cardinals

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to praying for the Cardinals involved in the papal conclave. Fr. Mike leads the congregation in petitions for divine guidance and strength:

"Holy Spirit, we ask you to guide the cardinals through the conclave and grant them wisdom, courage, hope and charity."
[01:15]

He further prays that the Cardinals remain receptive to the Holy Spirit’s influence:

"We pray that the cardinals may listen attentively to you and ask to grant them the faith to discern your holy will."
[01:45]

Fr. Mike underscores the necessity for the Cardinals to embody these virtues, ensuring that their decision aligns with God’s will and the Church's spiritual needs.

Supplication for the Church

Transitioning from the Cardinals to the broader Church, Fr. Mike offers a heartfelt supplication:

"Heavenly Father, we beseech you, protect and guide your church during this conclave. Grant us, in your great love, a pope who guides your church to grow in faithfulness towards you."
[02:20]

He envisions a future where the newly elected pope leads with profound faith and hope, drawing the Church closer to divine truth and unity.

Invocation of the Holy Spirit

The episode culminates in a powerful invocation to the Holy Spirit, seeking renewal and inspiration for the faithful:

"Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your spirit, and they shall be created and you shall renew the face of the earth."
[03:00]

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to embrace this renewal, fostering a deeper personal and communal relationship with God as the Church awaits its next spiritual leader.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a final blessing, reaffirming the prayers offered and the unity of the Church in this critical time:

"In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
[03:30]

Fr. Mike leaves listeners with a sense of peace and purposeful anticipation, reinforcing the importance of collective prayer and trust in God's providence during the conclave.

Reflections and Insights

Throughout the episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz interweaves reflections on the significance of each prayer and reading. He emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding not only the Cardinals but also the faithful, fostering a spirit of unity and discernment. His compassionate and accessible approach ensures that listeners feel connected to the Church's journey, regardless of their prior familiarity with the conclave's intricacies.

Notable Quotes

• Fr. Mike Schmitz:

  "As we gather in prayer, we acknowledge our dependence on the Holy Spirit to lead us through this pivotal moment in our Church's history."
  [00:45]

• Fr. Mike Schmitz:

  "A pope guided by profound faith and hope will illuminate the path for millions, drawing us closer to God and to each other."
  [02:40]

• Fr. Mike Schmitz:

  "Let us open our hearts to the Holy Spirit, allowing divine love to transform us and renew our commitment to the Church."
  [03:10]

Final Thoughts

"The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast" episode on "Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 9" serves as a spiritual beacon for Catholics worldwide. Through structured prayers, scriptural foundations, and thoughtful reflections, Fr. Mike fosters a sense of communal hope and trust in divine guidance. This episode not only prepares the faithful for the conclave but also reinforces the enduring bonds that unite the global Church in faith and purpose.