Strict, confidential procedures are followed in the choosing of a new Pope. The Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta is home to the cardinals, who convene in the Sistine Chapel to cast their votes. No external communication is allowed during the entire process, which is shrouded in secrecy.
Only 138 of the College of Cardinals’ 252 members—those under 80—were able to vote.
The position is nearly always held by a cardinal, but theoretically any unmarried Catholic man who is at least 35 years old and has been baptized could become pope. Additionally, a candidate needs to have studied canon law, theology, or the Bible.
However, women cannot hold the position of pope. Women are not allowed to become bishops or cardinals, the two clerical ranks from which popes are typically chosen, due to the Catholic Church’s position on male-only priesthood.
According to ABC, Catholic historian and pundit Paul Collins stated, “The truth is that the patriarchy is still in place and women need not apply.”
The Vatican argues this prohibition is established in historical precedent, claiming that Jesus picked twelve male apostles, who in turn ordained additional males into the ministry.
As the world now waits to learn the identity of the new Pontiff, one thing is certain—this is a watershed moment for the Church.
As additional information becomes available, this breaking news story will be updated.
