Papal Conclave

Definition

• A Papal Conclave is a gathering of the College of Cardinals to elect the bishop of Rome, known as the pope.
• The pope is considered the apostolic successor of Saint Peter and the head of the Catholic Church.
• It is the oldest method of electing a head of state still in use.

Historical Development

• Originally, the pope was chosen by consensus of clergy and laity.
• Established in 1059, the College of Cardinals became the sole electors.
• Gregory X in 1274 decreed electors be secluded until a pope is chosen.
• The two-thirds majority rule was solidified by the Third Council of the Lateran in 1179 and later in Aeterni Patris Filius in 1621.
• Conclaves have been held in the Sistine Chapel since 1492.

Electorate

• Initially, bishops were elected by clergy and lay consensus in dioceses.
• The right of laity to reject a pope was abolished in 769, then restored for Roman noblemen in 862.
• By 1059, only cardinals could elect the pope, with the requirement for cardinal bishops to lead discussions initially.

Secular Influence

• Papal elections were historically influenced by Roman emperors and monarchs.
• The Holy Roman Emperor's influence was acknowledged in 1059 but abolished by the Investiture Controversy.

Seclusion and Resolution

• To avoid deadlocks, strict rules of seclusion were established, such as in Ubi periculum in 1274 that included rationing food if elections delayed.

Modern Practice

• Governed by Universi Dominici gregis (1996).
• Conclaves held in the Sistine Chapel with electors residing in Domus Sanctae Marthae.
• Papal vacancy results from death or resignation; verified by the cardinal camerlengo.
• A papal resignation, such as Benedict XVI in 2013, leads to conclave preparations.

Voting Process

• Balloting involves three phases: pre-scrutiny, scrutiny, and post-scrutiny.
• A two-thirds majority is typically required.

Fumata

• Black smoke indicates an unsuccessful ballot; white smoke announces a new pope.

Acceptance and Proclamation

• After election, the pope-elect is asked if they accept the role and choose a papal name.
• The pope gives Urbi et Orbi blessing from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.

Relevant Papal Documents

• In nomine Domini (1059), Ubi periculum (1274), Aeterni Patris Filius (1621), Universi Dominici gregis (1996).

In Popular Culture

• Featured in films like Angels & Demons and Conclave (2024).

See Also

• Conclave Capitulation: Agreements made during conclaves.
• Elective Monarchy: A monarchy whose ruler is elected.
• History of Papacy: The historical evolution of the papal office and elections.

These notes provide a comprehensive guide to understanding the history, procedures, and cultural impact of the papal conclave, which remains a critical event in the Catholic Church's process of electing its spiritual leader.