Manila: The Archdiocese of Manila issued a prayer on Friday for the forthcoming selection of the new head of the Catholic Church. The call to prayer comes as the College of Cardinals prepares to elect the 267th pope in a conclave set to take place in the Vatican next week.

According to Philippines News Agency, the archdiocese released Circular No. 2025-31, urging the faithful to engage in various forms of prayer, including the Eucharist, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Liturgy of the Hours, personal prayer, and the rosary. This initiative is aimed at fostering solidarity with the global Church during this significant event.

The archdiocese has instructed parishes and communities to recite the "Prayer for the Election of a Pope" after the Post Communion Prayer in all Masses starting on the evening of Saturday, May 3, 2025. This practice will continue until the new Supreme Pontiff is elected.

As the conclave begins on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the archdiocese has decreed that all Masses will be dedicated to the election of the new pontiff. The next pope will succeed Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.