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Holy Smoke: What can we expect from the papal conclave?

Apr 27, 2025
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INSIGHT

Church Governance Post-Pope Death

  • After a pope dies, the College of Cardinals governs the church until a new pope is elected.
  • The process includes preparing for the funeral and holding daily general congregations where cardinals discuss the future leadership.
INSIGHT

Age Limits Define Electors

  • Cardinals over 80 years old participate in pre-conclave congregations but cannot vote in the conclave.
  • Currently, 138 eligible cardinal electors are under 80 and required to attend the conclave.
INSIGHT

Who Presides Over Conclave

  • The senior cardinal bishop who is an elector presides over the conclave, not the dean of the College necessarily.
  • Cardinal Pietro Parolin is expected to preside over the next conclave as senior cardinal bishop elector.
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