College of Cardinals facts for kids

The College of Cardinals is a very important group of leaders in the Catholic Church. These leaders are called cardinals. They help the Pope and also choose the next Pope when one is needed. There are currently 214 cardinals in this group. Once a Pope appoints someone as a cardinal, they serve for life.

Cardinals wearing red clothes during the funeral of Pope John Paul II.

What is the College of Cardinals?

The College of Cardinals is like a special council or team for the Pope. Its main job is to advise the Pope on important matters. Cardinals also help run the Church when the Pope is not able to. They are chosen from different parts of the world.

Who are Cardinals?

Cardinals are usually bishops or archbishops who have served the Church for a long time. They are chosen by the Pope himself. Being named a cardinal is a very high honor in the Catholic Church. It shows that the Pope trusts them with big responsibilities.

The Cardinal's Red Hat

Cardinals are often recognized by their special red clothing. This color, called scarlet, symbolizes their readiness to serve the Church. It also represents their loyalty to the Pope. They also receive a special red hat, though it's not worn every day.

What Do Cardinals Do?

Cardinals have several important roles within the Church. They serve in different offices in the Vatican. This is the central government of the Catholic Church. They also lead important dioceses, which are large church areas, around the world.

Electing a New Pope

One of the most important jobs of the College of Cardinals is to elect a new Pope. This happens when a Pope passes away or resigns. Cardinals under the age of 80 gather in a special meeting. This meeting is called a conclave. They meet in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican.

The Conclave Process

During a conclave, cardinals vote in secret. They continue voting until one cardinal receives enough votes. This process can take several days. When a new Pope is chosen, white smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel chimney. This tells the world that a new leader has been elected.

How Does Someone Become a Cardinal?

The Pope chooses new cardinals based on their service and wisdom. They are often leaders of major archdioceses. Sometimes, they are experts in Church law or history. The Pope announces his choices in a special ceremony. This ceremony is called a consistory.

The Consistory Ceremony

During a consistory, the Pope gives each new cardinal a ring and a special hat. The ring shows their loyalty to the Church and the Pope. The hat is a symbol of their new rank. They also receive a "title" or a church in Rome. This connects them to the Church in Rome.

History of the College of Cardinals

The College of Cardinals has a long history. It developed over many centuries. In the early days, the Pope was elected by the clergy and people of Rome. Over time, the role of cardinals became more important. By the 11th century, cardinals were the main electors of the Pope. This helped to make the election process more organized.

Important Dates

• 1059: Pope Nicholas II gave cardinals the main power to elect the Pope.
• 1179: The Third Lateran Council set the rule that a two-thirds vote was needed to elect a Pope. This rule is still used today.
• 1586: Pope Sixtus V set the maximum number of cardinals at 70. This number changed over time.
• 1958-1978: Pope Paul VI made many changes. He increased the number of cardinals. He also set the age limit of 80 for voting in a conclave.

See also

In Spanish: Colegio Cardenalicio para niños