Conclave

Conclave A conclave is a gathering or assembly of individuals, often with the purpose of making important decisions or electing leaders. The term is most commonly associated with the Papal conclave, the process by which the College of Cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church elects a new Pope. However, the term can also refer to other types of secret or private meetings.

Etymology

The word "conclave" comes from the Latin conclavium, meaning "a room that can be locked up," which is derived from con- (together) and clavis (key). This reflects the secretive nature of such meetings.

Papal Conclave

The Papal conclave is the most well-known type of conclave. It is convened upon the death or resignation of a Pope to elect a new leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The conclave is held in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican City, and the cardinals are sequestered from the outside world until a new pope is chosen. The process is governed by strict rules and traditions, including the use of smoke signals to indicate the progress of the election.

History

The history of the papal conclave dates back to the 13th century. The first conclave was held in 1241, and the procedures have evolved over time. The most significant reforms were made by Pope Gregory X in 1274, following the protracted election of 1268-1271, which lasted nearly three years.

Procedure

The conclave begins with a Mass of the Holy Spirit, followed by the cardinals taking an oath of secrecy. The cardinals then proceed to the Sistine Chapel, where they cast their votes in a series of ballots. A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope. Once a candidate receives the necessary votes, he is asked if he accepts the position. If he accepts, he chooses a papal name and is then announced to the public.

Other Types of Conclaves

While the term is most commonly associated with the papal election, it can also refer to other types of secret or private meetings. For example, the College of Cardinals may hold a conclave to discuss important matters of church policy or governance.

Related Pages

• Papal conclave
• College of Cardinals
• Pope
• Sistine Chapel
• Vatican City
• Pope Gregory X