Who Is the New Pope
The new pope is the current bishop of Rome and leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. He is elected by the College of Cardinals in a papal conclave. The new pope chooses a regnal name and assumes the papacy, continuing the line of succession from Saint Peter.
How a New Pope Is Elected
A new pope is chosen when the papal seat becomes vacant, usually after the death or resignation of the previous pope. Cardinals under the age of 80 gather in the Sistine Chapel to vote in secret ballots. A two-thirds majority is required, and the process continues until a single candidate receives enough votes.
What the New Pope Does
The new pope serves as the spiritual head of the Catholic Church and the sovereign of Vatican City. He appoints bishops, issues official documents, and represents the Church in diplomatic relations. He also leads major liturgical events and manages the administration of the Holy See.
For more details on the role and history of the papacy, see the overview at Vatican.va.
