As the conclave gets ready to begin, there seems to be much speculation and misunderstandings of the process. I wanted to know more about the event and learned some interesting things today from the Vatican site. For example, today officials and staff involved in the upcoming Conclave have taken an oath of secrecy. The oath was taken by all individuals—both clergy and laity— who will be present for the conclave. This group includes the Secretary of the College of Cardinals, the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations, seven papal masters of ceremonies, two Augustinian religious assigned to the Papal Sacristy, religious personnel of various languages for confessions, medical doctors and nurses, elevator operators of the Apostolic Palace, staff responsible for dining services and cleaning as well as florists, technical services staff and those responsible for transporting electors from the Casa Santa Marta to the Apostolic Palace, members of the Swiss Guard assigned to surveillance near the Sistine Chapel, the Director of Security Services and Civil Protection of the Vatican City State, and some of his collaborators. The oath includes a solemn promise to maintain absolute secrecy regarding all matters directly or indirectly related to the voting and scrutiny for the election of the Supreme Pontiff, with a perpetual obligation unless expressly authorised by the newly elected Pope or his successors. I never knew this took place and was in awe of the commitment of these people as well as the humility and love of service they must have.

I Found God today in a group of people committed to their faith.