CSN Calls for Special Votive Masses for Election of New Pope; Faithful Advised to Rely on Verified Channels

Port Harcourt, Nigeria – 7 May 2025/Fr. Okhueleigbe Osemhantie Amos

The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) has issued a nationwide directive to all Catholic priests to begin the celebration of *Votive Masses for the Election of a Pope* starting today, Wednesday, 7 May 2025, and to continue daily until the conclusion of the papal conclave in Rome. Upon the announcement of *Habemus Papam*—the traditional declaration of a new Pope—a *Mass of Thanksgiving* is to be offered in all parishes.

This solemn instruction, signed by the Secretary-General of the CSN, Rev. Fr. Dr. Michael Banjo, comes amid the sacred process of electing a new successor to the See of Peter. The directive is accompanied by the proper liturgical rubrics for the votive Mass, which all priests are urged to print and place on their altars for proper usage during this period of intense prayer and discernment for the universal Church.

Adding to the call, the National Director of Social Communications, Fr. Dr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, urged all clergy and lay faithful to take this moment seriously. In a broadcast message, he said:

> “Good morning, dear friends. Please share to all priests in your diocese and on all platforms you belong to. Special attention to ALL PRIESTS as you say Mass from today, 7 May 2025. Please print it out for use on the ALTAR during this period.”

In related updates, the Secretariat has also disclosed that network services will be shut down across Vatican City today, Wednesday, from 3:00 p.m. Rome time, to preserve the integrity and confidentiality of the conclave proceedings.

Furthermore, CSN has strongly advised the faithful to rely solely on credible and authorized sources for news on the conclave and the identity of the new Pope. Official updates will be disseminated through Vatican News, EWTN, Lumen Christi TV, and CSN-verified platforms. The faithful are urged to avoid speculation, misinformation, and content from unauthorized social media sources.

This sacred moment calls on all Catholics in Nigeria and around the world to unite in prayer, silence, and hope as the Church awaits her new Shepherd.

*“Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Your love.”*