Is it indispensable that all the cardinals be present at the election of the date of the conclave?

As it is a plenary session, all must be present, especially the electors, who have the right to vote. Unless they are absent for reasons of illness. A case in which they would be excused, they would be excused and, therefore, would not count.

Could it be understood that there is no undue haste to elect the Supreme Pontiff?

-There are some significant things. On the evening of March 5 and the morning of March 6 there are no General Congregations. And during the afternoon of March 6, the cardinals will celebrate a meeting prayer with the faithful in front of the altar of St. Peter. This act denotes a message: there is no hurry, the first thing is prayer, the election must be carried out with serenity and Christian sense. As it is said in a colloquial way, without haste but without pause. Prayer is important when deciding. In fact, in my opinion, this act is celebrated in a premeditated way. First, let us pray, and then, let us set the date final for the celebration of the conclave. Lest, by rushing things, there be pressures and vested interests, as well as the appearance of media that want to influence. I believe that decisions such as this one will put a stop to such possibilities.

What does this celebration itself imply?

-It is an act of confession of faith, where the Creed is usually recited and we pray for the election of the successor of Peter. It is like going to the origin of the whole pontificate,
in the sense of the figure of the Holy Father. In the same way, we ask for inspiration from the Holy Spirit when it comes to choosing a new Pontiff. In addition, it should not be forgotten that just behind the altar is the famous stained glass window of Bernini, with the dove of the Holy Spirit.