The passing of Pope Francis has triggered one of the oldest traditions in the Catholic Church: the conclave. The election of the new Pope is one of Catholicism’s most ancient traditions.
Here is our infographic explaining the process:
Historical Significance
This ritual has evolved since the 11th century yet maintains its core purpose: ensuring the divine guidance of the Holy Spirit in selecting the successor to St. Peter, the Church’s first pope. The conclave’s secrecy and ceremonial aspects underscore the profound spiritual significance of this transition of power within the world’s oldest continuously functioning institution.
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