how the pope is selected?
The pope is selected through a process called a papal conclave, held after the death or resignation of the previous pope. Here’s how it works:
Eligible Voters: The College of Cardinals, consisting of cardinals under 80 years old (up to 120), gathers in Vatican City. These cardinals are senior church leaders from around the world. Conclave Setting: The cardinals meet in the Sistine Chapel, isolated from external communication to ensure secrecy and independence. They swear oaths to maintain confidentiality. Voting Process: Cardinals cast secret ballots, typically up to four times per day (two in the morning, two in the afternoon). To be elected, a candidate needs a two-thirds majority of the votes. Any baptized male Catholic can theoretically be chosen, but in practice, the pope is almost always a cardinal present in the conclave. Ballot Counting: After each round, ballots are counted and burned. If no pope is elected, chemicals are added to produce black smoke, signaling no decision. If a pope is elected, the ballots are burned with chemicals to produce white smoke, announcing a new pope to the world. Acceptance and Announcement: The elected candidate is asked if he accepts the role. If he agrees, he chooses a papal name. The Dean of the College of Cardinals announces “Habemus Papam” (“We have a pope”) from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, introducing the new pope to the public. Timing: The conclave usually begins 15-20 days after the papacy becomes vacant, giving cardinals time to travel. It continues until a pope is chosen, typically lasting a few days. This process ensures a deliberate, confidential, and tradition-bound selection of the Catholic Church’s leader. If you have specific details you’re curious about (e.g., historical examples or recent changes), let me know!
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