Who Is the New Pope
The new pope is the most recent leader elected to head the Catholic Church. He succeeds the previous pope after resignation, death, or retirement. The new pope takes a papal name, leads the Vatican, and serves as the spiritual head of over one billion Catholics worldwide.
How the New Pope Is Chosen
The new pope is selected by cardinals in a process called a conclave. Only cardinals under the age of 80 may vote. They meet in the Sistine Chapel, cast secret ballots, and require a two-thirds majority to elect a new pope. The process continues until a clear winner emerges.
What the New Pope Does
The new pope leads the global Catholic Church, appoints bishops, approves dioceses, and issues guidance on doctrine and morality. He resides in the Vatican, receives foreign dignitaries, and represents the Church in international forums. His decisions influence millions of believers and shape Church policy.
For official information on the papacy and the election process, visit Vatican.va.
