How will the next Pope be chosen?
The next Pope will be chosen in the same time-honoured way that has been used for centuries. An article from Time.com outlines the process. First, the death of the current Pope will be verified by the Camerlengo, the head of the Sacred College of Cardinals, who follows specific procedures, such as the breaking of the papal ring and seal. The Pope is buried and nine days of mourning follow. Fifteen to 20 days after the Pope’s death, the Cardinals meet to elect the next Pontiff. The election, known as a conclave, is held in a sealed and secure part of the Sistine Chapel. Only cardinals under the age of 80 vote, and secret written ballots are used. The Camerlengo and three assistants count the ballots. Except in special circumstances, a papal candidate must receive two-thirds of the vote plus one
