Houston Cardinal Will Join Conclave, Help Elect New Pope

Pope Benedict XVI celebrates Christmas Eve mass at St. Peter's Basilica to mark the nativity of Jesus Christ, in Vatican City on December 24, 2012. Pope Benedict XVI said in his Christmas Eve mass that religion can be corrupted, leading to violence and wars, but refuted critics who claim that denying God's existence would lead to peace. (Credit: AFP PHOTO / VINCENZO PINTO)

(Credit: AFP Photo/Vincenzo Pinto)

Roman Catholic cardinals will have their first organizational meeting in Rome Monday as they prepare to elect Pope Benedict‘s successor.

Among those who will get a vote in the matter is Houston Cardinal Daniel DiNardo. News 92 FM’s Mike Barajas reports:

Cardinal Daniel DiNardo – head of the Catholic Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston says – they are dealing with unique circumstances. This is the first time in history that a pope voluntarily decided to step down.

“May I add this is the first time that I will ever participate in a conclave.”

But he says all of the Catholic Cardinals will have to navigate through uncharted waters.

“So if you have questions for me, I may have to answer ‘I don’t know’ because, in effect, I don’t know,” DiNardo said.

No date has yet been set for the start of the conclave. That will elect the new leader of the Catholic Church.

Benedict, now known as Pope Emeritus, has urged the cardinals to unite behind his successor, telling them, “Among you is the future pope, to whom I promise my unconditional reverence and obedience.”

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