Here's a clear, step-by-step explanation of how a pope is elected, tailored for a 15-year-old.
- Who votes? The College of Cardinals, all cardinals under 80 years old who are eligible to vote.
- Where? In a sealed gathering called a conclave, traditionally in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City.
- When does it happen? After a pope dies or resigns and the papal vacancy is declared.
- How do they vote? Each cardinal writes a name on a secret ballot. The ballots are placed in a chalice and counted by officials.
- What majority is needed? A two-thirds majority of the voting electors is required for a candidate to be pope.
- What if no one reaches two-thirds? The cardinals vote again, in more rounds, usually over several days, until someone reaches the threshold.
- Secrecy and reflection The voting is private and free of campaigning. Cardinals pray and seek discernment with the Holy Spirit.
- After a winner is found The elected cardinal is asked if he accepts. If he accepts, he becomes pope, chooses a papal name, and is announced to the world with white smoke from the chimney.
- The smoke and the public welcome White smoke signals success; black smoke means no decision yet. The Protodeacon then proclaims the pope's name with Habemus Papam, and the new pope appears on the balcony to bless the people.
Note: The rules are set by the Church and can be updated. Cardinals under 80 cast votes, and a pope's name is the papal name he chooses, not necessarily his birth name.