In this exclusive post-conclave interview, Cardinal Stephen Brislin, Archbishop of Johannesburg, shares a deeply personal and spiritual reflection on his experience during the recent conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV. It was his first time participating in a papal election — an unforgettable moment of prayer, listening, and discernment within the heart of the Church.
“It’s been a couple of days since we came out of the conclave,” Cardinal Brislin said gently, “and I’ve had a chance to rest and reflect after an intense period of work, especially during the general congregations and the conclave itself.”
A Journey into the Heart of the Church
Upon arriving in Rome, Cardinal Brislin was welcomed at the Domus Australia — a residence of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference — a quiet place that required a daily commute to the Vatican. He wasn’t alone; two other cardinals also stayed there. Despite the daily travel, it was a suitable space to pray and prepare.
The days leading up to the conclave were filled with general congregations — meetings of both voting and non-voting Cardinals. “There were about 230 or 240 of us,” he recalled. “Each one had an opportunity to speak. We discussed what the Church needs in this time and what sort of Pope could guide us forward.” The experience was, in his words, “extraordinarily interesting,” revealing common themes among the Cardinals — especially the desire for continuity.
He explained, “We weren’t choosing a successor to Pope Francis per se, but a successor to Peter. There must be continuity — in fidelity to Jesus Christ, the teachings of the Church, and with the pastoral priorities Pope Francis so deeply embodied: mercy, compassion, justice, and peace.”
On Media Influence and Social Distractions
Cardinal Brislin was candid about the noise surrounding the conclave. “There was a strong awareness among us to be cautious about what’s said in the media and on social platforms,” he said. “These do not — and should not — influence our decisions. In fact, a few days before the conclave, I stopped looking at social media altogether. It was becoming disturbing — even slanderous.”
When asked if the speculation seen on social media had any sway, he was clear: “Absolutely not. Our focus had to be on prayer, discernment, and fidelity to the Holy Spirit.”
Inside the Conclave: Silence, Simplicity, and the Spirit
Entering the conclave on Wednesday evening meant handing over all digital devices. “Smartwatches, phones, laptops — all sealed away. The security was extraordinary,” he said. “And yes — it was challenging. No contact with the outside world. But it was also freeing. It allowed us to be fully present, fully prayerful.”
The conclave was held in the Sistine Chapel, where each Cardinal took an oath of confidentiality. “It was deeply moving to process into that sacred space, singing the litany, praying together, and being acutely aware that Christ was in our midst.”
The Call for Continuity: Synodality, Peace, and Catholic Social Teaching
Continuity, he emphasized, does not merely mean repeating the past. “It means remaining faithful to the deposit of faith while discerning how best to respond to today’s challenges.” Cardinal Brislin affirmed the importance of continuing the Synod on Synodality, one of the key processes initiated under Pope Francis.
He also reflected on Pope Leo XIV’s first words to the world: “Peace be with you.” “That’s no coincidence,” Cardinal Brislin said. “We are living in a time of devastating conflict — in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, the DRC, and elsewhere. Our new Holy Father is clearly a man who will work tirelessly for peace and justice, in the spirit of Christ.”
Interestingly, Pope Leo’s chosen name also speaks volumes. “Pope Leo XIII was a champion of Catholic social teaching. That legacy continues. Pope Leo XIV is committed to the dignity of every person and to a Church that walks with the vulnerable.”
The Role of Digital Media in the Church
Cardinal Brislin acknowledged that digital media is a “new continent” to be evangelized. “We must use social media to proclaim Christ,” he said. “But we also need to guide people to think critically about what they consume online. Not everything that’s shared is true — and too often, it is harmful.”
He recounted a moment of personal realization during the conclave: “I didn’t even think I’d need an alarm clock — I always use my phone! Someone had to lend me one. That’s how dependent we’ve become on technology. It was humbling, and it reminded me of the beauty of simplicity.”
A Joyful Surprise: The Election of Pope Leo XIV
When asked about the moment of the election, Cardinal Brislin described it as “remarkable.” The new pope — one of the youngest cardinals, elevated just recently — was not widely expected to be chosen. “It emerged gradually, through deep peace and unity among the Cardinals,” he said. “There was no division. Just prayer, reflection, and a clear sense of where the Spirit was leading us.”
Following the election, each cardinal came forward to pledge obedience and loyalty. “It was a beautiful moment. The Holy Father greeted each of us personally, smiling with serenity. I believe this calm, humble spirit will mark his pontificate.”
Final Remarks
As Catholics around the world welcome Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Brislin reminds the people of God that “we are here to proclaim Christ… and everything we do — including how we engage the modern world — must lead people to encounter Him.”
