Election of the Pope

The election of the Pope is a process in which Catholic cardinals gather in a papal conclave to choose a new pope after a pontiff's death or resignation. Cardinals, who are senior church officials, vote in secret ballots. If no candidate receives a two-thirds majority, voting continues until a consensus is reached. Once a candidate is elected, they are asked if they accept; if so, they become pope. The election process emphasizes confidentiality, tradition, and the spiritual discernment of the cardinals, ensuring the new pope reflects the church's mission and values.