konklave

Konklave refers to a closed meeting or an assembly of a group, typically the College of Cardinals in the Roman Catholic Church, to elect a new pope or make important decisions. The term originated from the Latin word "conclave," meaning "with a key," indicating that the meeting was locked and only the participants had access.

In the context of the Catholic Church, a conclave is a gathering of cardinals at the Vatican to elect a new pope. Since 1059, the conclave has been a secret meeting where the cardinals are locked in the Sistine Chapel with no outside communication or influence. The process includes a series of votes, with a two-thirds majority required for election.

The purpose of the conclave is to ensure that the papacy is elected through a free and secret vote, free from external pressures and influences. This secrecy has been maintained throughout the centuries, with the goal of maintaining the integrity and impartiality of the election process. The cardinals, however, are permitted to bring pre-selected writings or proxy votes from churches and groups to guide their decision-making.

Historically, congregations, similar to conclave-like assemblies, have been held for various purposes, including considering the canonization of saints and shaping church doctrine. However, the term konklave is more commonly associated with papal succession and major decision-making within the Catholic Church.