The process of becoming a pope, known as papal conclave, is a centuries-old tradition within the Catholic Church. Here is an overview of the key steps in the process:
- Vacancy of the Papal See: The process begins with the death or resignation of the current pope, leading to a vacancy in the papal office. In the case of a death, a period of mourning, known as the novendiales, takes place.
- Preparation for the Conclave: The College of Cardinals, consisting of cardinals under the age of 80, gathers in Rome for the conclave. The conclave is held in the Vatican, and the cardinals are sequestered to ensure confidentiality and prayerful discernment.
- Voting: Cardinals cast votes in a series of secret ballots. To be elected pope, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority. If no candidate receives the required majority, additional voting rounds are held.
- Election: Once a cardinal receives the required majority, he is approached and asked if he accepts the election. If he agrees, he becomes the pope. The newly elected pope then chooses a papal name and is announced to the world with the famous phrase “Habemus Papam” (We have a pope).
- Acceptance and Inauguration: The newly elected pope accepts the papacy and is inaugurated in a ceremony held in St. Peter’s Square. He appears on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to impart his first apostolic blessing and greet the gathered crowds.
Becoming a pope is a solemn responsibility, and the selection process reflects the Church’s commitment to prayer, discernment, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.