How does the College of Cardinals help the pope?

The College of Cardinals assists the pope primarily through two key functions defined by the Code of Canon Law:

• Advisory Role: Cardinals serve as the pope's highest-ranking advisers. While many cardinals lead dioceses around the world, those residing in Rome often serve as officers and advisers within the Roman Curia—the administrative departments (dicasteries) that assist the pontiff in the day-to-day governance of the church.12
• Electoral Role: The college acts as the electoral body responsible for choosing a new pope during a conclave. Additionally, during a vacancy in the papal office (sede vacante), the college holds the right to govern the church in urgent matters.12

Historically, the role of the college as a corporate advisory body was more prominent, but over time, administrative duties shifted toward specific curial congregations. Today, cardinals continue to support the pope's mission through their roles in the Curia, as papal nuncios, or by providing counsel individually and as a college.12