How a pope is elected

The conclave to elect Roman Catholic Church's new Pope will be held on Tuesday, March 12, after "pope emeritus" Benedict XVI's historic resignation last February 10.

A Vatican spokesman announced on Friday that the cardinals will hold a private meeting in the Sistine Chapel after a morning mass in St. Peter's Basilica.

They will not be allowed to leave the meeting until they have chosen who will succeed Benedict XVI.

The conclave follows precise rules developed over centuries. The name comes from cum clave which means "with a key" signifying that the cardinals are locked in for the election.

Check out this infographic on how the next Pope will be elected.

 

 

Posted by: Reyn's Room

Posted in: Conclave,News,Papacy,Pope Benedict XVI