Popes

The pope is the Bishop of Rome and the spiritual leader of the worldwide Roman Catholic Church. Catholics regard the pope as the successor of Saint Peter, whom they consider the first bishop of Rome. As head of the Holy See, the pope provides doctrinal guidance, oversees the church’s hierarchy, and represents the Catholic Church in international relations. The pope is also the sovereign of Vatican City State.

The pope is elected by the College of Cardinals in a conclave, typically from cardinals under the age of 80. The election requires a two-thirds majority, after which the chosen candidate accepts the office and takes on a papal name. In governing, the pope appoints bishops, presides over the Roman Curia, and issues teaching documents, liturgical norms, and doctrinal directions. He serves as the visible head of the Catholic Church and a universal pastor to Catholics worldwide.

Doctrine holds that the pope may teach infallibly on matters of faith and morals when, and only when, he speaks ex cathedra as the successor of Peter and with the assent of the whole Church. Outside such occasions, the pope’s teachings are part of the broader magisterium and must be interpreted in dialogue with the bishops.

Historically, the papacy has played a central role in Christian theology, church governance, and diplomacy, influencing Western politics, culture, and education. The papacy has resided most notably in the Vatican in Rome, with Vatican City State established as a sovereign entity in 1929. Popes can serve for life or, in rare cases, resign, as in Benedict XVI’s 2013 resignation.