The Pillar Podcast Ep. 202: The next Benevacantism
Mar 8, 2025
JD and Ed dive into the complexities of the College of Cardinals, especially regarding how many electors can participate in a conclave. They reflect on Pope Francis's health and its emotional impact on the Church community. Discussions also touch on papal resignations and the controversial idea of Benevacantism. The importance of transparency in Church affairs is explored, alongside the potential challenges of having too many cardinal electors. Finally, they detail the election process for a new pope and the crucial rights of cardinal electors.
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Benevacantism Is Factually Wrong
- Benevacantism claimed Benedict XVI never truly resigned, making Francis an invalid pope. - This idea was wrong legally and is now mostly gone after Benedict's death.
120 Cardinal Electors Is Maximum Norm
- Paul VI set the maximum number of cardinal electors at 120 in 1975. - Popes often exceed this number without invalidating conclaves or elections.
No Cardinal Elector Exclusion Allowed
- Law states no cardinal elector can be excluded from voting regardless of numbers. - Seating over 120 electors is customary due to cardinals aging out at 80.