Conclave

That night, Lomeli contemplates his life’s lack of meaning. When he was younger, his vow of celibacy made him feel noble, but now he feels like he is just waiting for the end of his life. The following morning, he takes a hot shower and skips breakfast, only going down to prepare for the opening mass of the conclave. He continues to wrestle with his inner turmoil during the mass. 

After the Gospel reading, Lomeli delivers his sermon. He reads a single page of meaningless platitudes before abandoning his prepared sermon to speak extemporaneously. He recalls St. Paul the Apostle’s revolutionary life, then reflects on St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians to argue that the Church gains strength from its diversity. He asks the congregation for tolerance, suggesting that all Catholics are needed on the journey to become more Christlike. Finally, he argues against the sin of certainty, suggesting that doubt is necessary to have faith. He prays that the next pope is capable of doubt. Through the humility of doubt, the pope can inspire and lead the Church to greater strength.

Lomeli believes he has surprised the cardinals with his homily. Speaking from the heart, however, has helped to quell his anxieties.