How do they choose a new pope?
How do they choose a new pope?
A two-thirds supermajority vote is required to elect the new pope. The last papal conclave occurred in 2013, when Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected as Pope Francis, succeeding Benedict XVI.
Who votes in the election of a new pope?
the College of Cardinals
Popes are chosen by the College of Cardinals, the Church’s most senior officials, who are appointed by the Pope and usually ordained bishops. They are summoned to a meeting at the Vatican which is followed by the Papal election – or Conclave.
What are the rules of being pope?
Technically, the only requirements to become pope are that you be a male and a practicing Catholic. However, since Pope Urban in 1378, no pope has been elected outside the College of Cardinals.
Does the pope earn a salary?
The pope will not be affected by the cuts, because he does not receive a salary. “As an absolute monarch, he has everything at his disposal and nothing at his disposal,” Mr. Muolo said. “He doesn’t need an income, because he has everything that he needs.”
How many votes are needed to choose a new pope?
Two ballots each are held in the morning and afternoon, for a total of four per day. If a new pope is not selected after 30 votes, the cardinals may choose to impose a majority vote, which would allow selection of a new pope by a simple majority.
What was the number of Cardinals needed to elect a Pope?
Previously, a candidate had to secure a majority of two-thirds to be elected pope (two-thirds plus one vote if the number of cardinals does not divide by three). John Paul II ruled that the voting could shift to a simple majority (50% plus one vote) after about 12 days of inconclusive voting.
Do you have to be Catholic to be elected Pope?
The cardinals do not have to choose one of their own number – theoretically any baptised male Catholic can be elected pope – but tradition says that they will almost certainly give the job to a cardinal. The Vatican talks about the cardinals being guided by the Holy Spirit.
How long does it take to elect a pope in a conclave?
The election process can take days. In previous centuries it has gone on for weeks or months and some cardinals have even died during conclaves. The process is designed to prevent any of the details of the voting emerging, either during or after the conclave. The threat of excommunication hangs over anyone tempted to break this silence.