ROME – The eighth session of the general congregation of cardinals was held Friday morning as discussions continued ahead of next week’s conclave, Vatican press office director Matteo Bruni confirmed.

More than 180 cardinals were present at the meeting, including more than 120 eligible to vote in the upcoming papal election.

According to Bruni, about 25 cardinals took the floor during the session, with key topics including the Church’s ongoing challenges related to sexual abuse and financial scandals.

“These issues were at the heart of the cardinals’ interventions, given the risk of counter-testimony to the Church’s mission,” Bruni said.

A total of 133 cardinal electors are set to participate in the conclave beginning Wednesday to select the next pope following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away from a stroke after battling pneumonia, on Easter Monday. PNA/ANSA