His resignation, which took effect Thursday, ushered in a period known as "sede vacante" or "vacant see" the transition period between papacies when a few Vatican officials take charge of running the church.
"It seems unimaginable that one could continue to use a communication tool so popular and powerful during the 'sede vacante' period, " Vatican Radio said, referring to the time during which the seat will be empty.
The first meeting isn't now expected until March 4, Father Lombardi said, since the official convocation to cardinals to come to Rome will only go out on March 1 the first day of what's known as the "sede vacante, " or the vacancy between papacies.