Most Italians want the next pope to follow the path of the late Francis, a new survey revealed on Friday.
The poll was conducted by Izi, a political and economic research firm, using the Cami-Cawi method. It was carried out between 29 and 30 April and presented on L’Aria che Tira on La7.
Over 74% of respondents said they want the new pope to continue the work of Pope Francis. Of those surveyed, 77% described Francis’s leadership as “progressive.”
“There is strong bipartisan appreciation for his commitment to peace,” said Izi president Giacomo Spaini.
“That message is shared by Catholics and non-Catholics, government supporters and opposition voters,” he added.
No preference over nationality of next pope
The survey also showed that nationality matters little to most voters. While an Italian pope remains the first preference, 60% said the pope’s nationality is not important. Almost 45% of centre-right voters preferred an Italian pope. That preference dropped to under 32% among opposition voters.
The top priorities for the next pope include peace, poverty reduction, and rejection of rearmament.
Spaini said the two main findings were the desire for continuity and indifference to nationality.
Conclave preparations underway
The Vatican installed the Sistine Chapel chimney on Friday ahead of next week’s conclave. Technicians also tested the smoke system to ensure it works correctly.
Two stoves are used: a cast iron one from 1939 and a more modern version from 2005. The older stove will burn the ballot papers. The newer one will burn additives to create black or white smoke. White smoke will signal a successful vote.
St Peter’s bells will ring when the new pope is elected.
The conclave begins on Wednesday. It will bring together 133 cardinal electors. To succeed, a candidate must receive at least 89 votes.
Papabili front runners
Cardinals have already begun informal discussions in Rome. Salvadorian Cardinal Gregorio Rosa Chávez expects a short conclave. “I think it will last three days at most,” he said. “It’s very open, and there could be surprises,” he added.
Bookmakers currently favour Pietro Parolin and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle. Parolin is the Vatican’s Secretary of State and will preside over the conclave.
On Friday, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni denied reports of health problems for Parolin. “No, it’s not true,” Bruni told reporters during a briefing. He said no doctors or nurses had been involved.
Bruni also confirmed there would be no professional interpreters during the conclave.
“There are some cardinals who don’t speak Italian,” he said. “I think that the cardinals can help each other out.” Simultaneous translation is being provided during the pre-conclave general congregations.
