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Sacred College of Cardinals
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Cardinals in red vestments attend Mass inside St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, with Cardinal Angelo Sodano leading the service at the ornate central altar. Where do the cardinal electors come from? A pyramid diagram illustrating the hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church, with levels from top to bottom: Pope, Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, Priests, Deacons, and Laypeople and Consecrated Religious, each with a brief description of their roles. Papal conclave Pope Francis, wearing a white mitre, presents the red biretta hat to Cardinal Anthony Poola, who is dressed in red and wearing a zucchetto, during a ceremony in St. Peter's Basilica.
How is a pope elected?

Sacred College of Cardinals: References & Edit History

Article Contributors

Primary Contributors

  • Massimo Faggioli
    Dr. Massimo Faggioli is a full professor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at Villanova University (Philadelphia).

Other Encyclopedia Britannica Contributors

Article History

Type Description Contributor Date
Noted that Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle was named dean of the college. Oct 18, 2026
Media added. May 06, 2025
Mentioned that the 2025 conclave was the first time the number of eligible electors exceeded 120. May 06, 2025
Article revised. Apr 21, 2025
New article added. May 14, 2024
Corrected display issue. May 14, 2024
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