A Night at the Conclave Captivates Christchurch Audience
In early August, more than 700 guests filled the James Hay Theatre at the Christchurch Town Hall, for ‘A Night at the Conclave’, an evening of rare insight and reflection with Cardinal John Dew. In a rich dialogue, Catholic broadcaster Hilary Muir encouraged Cardinal Dew to share his remarkable experiences inside the Papal Conclave which elected Pope Leo XIV and of the time following the death of Pope Francis.
Hilary Muir guided the discussion with curiosity and humour, posing questions many in the audience had long wondered including how the real process is compared with the popular fictional depictions seen in films. “Yes, I have seen the movie,” Cardinal Dew admitted with a smile.
Cardinal Dew spoke with warmth and candour about the human moments, the spiritual atmosphere, and the unity of purpose among those present. This interview captured both the gravity of the conclave and the warmth of the man recounting it.
Danica Berania is a Year 12 student from Catholic Cathedral College and attended this event. “It was such an honour
to have a glimpse behind the sacred ritual in the Catholic Church—the Conclave. I would like to extend appreciation and gratitude on behalf of everyone who went to watch it. We were able to listen live to the Cardinal’s first public interview after returning from the Conclave and his experience was deeply inspiring and informative. Hilary Muir interviewed the Cardinal skilfully and through her gentle but pointed questions, Cardinal Dew was able to share what he experienced and felt during the process, not just facts. The questions of the wider community were answered. This event made a lasting impression for all those who attended. What struck me the most in the interview with Cardinal Dew was his description of the responsibility
of the sacred process, as the decision was in their hands.
I remembered him saying that when he entered the Sistine Chapel, the place was hushed as everyone was praying. His words reminded me of the importance of prayer in asking the Lord to guide them and that leadership in faith is not about authority - it is about service to and trust in the Lord.”
The day before the Night at the Conclave event, Cardinal
Dew was hosted by St Francis of Assisi school in Mairehau, where 400 year 7 and 8 students from several of our schools gathered to hear a similar message. This special opportunity was appreciated by the students who also enjoyed asking questions to find out more about the Conclave and Cardinal Dew himself; “What made you decide to become a priest?” and “Do you travel a lot?”
Cardinal Dew is only the third New Zealand Cardinal in history to take part in this centuries-old and very careful process. His presentation to both events was informative and inspiring, leaving people with a deeper understanding of the conclave and a renewed appreciation for the faith, service, and humanity underpinning the election of a Pope.
