Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, told PA: “Before going into the conclave, we will have met almost 10 times in the formal meetings of the Congregation of Cardinals.
“These meetings, which have been long and during which we have been very attentive to the contributions from cardinals across the world, now lead us to the conclave at which only those under 80 who will vote for the next pope in the Sistine Chapel attend.
“During these days we have got to know each other and to appreciate the variety of gifts, insights and dedication among us. It is a truly universal church and a reflection of the breadth and diversity of human experience.”