How a New Pope Is Chosen

The Time-Honored Traditions of Papal Elections
Christopher M. Bellitto, PhD
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About 2,000 years ago, Jesus told Peter he was the rock on which Jesus would build his Church and instructed Peter to tend his sheep. Since Peter, the Catholic Church has been led by more than 260 men we call pope. How were these men selected? How will the next pope be chosen? How has the papal election process changed over time? This special issue of Catholic Update walks the reader through the various rituals involved in the resignation or death and burial of a pope and the process of electing a new one.

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Series Catholic Update Newsletter
Publish Date Apr 20, 2025
Pages or Item Count 4
Size 8.5 x 11
Weight N/A
Discount Category Other

Christopher M. Bellitto, PhD, is a medievalist, a Church historian, and professor of history at Kean University in Union, NJ, where he teaches courses in ancient and medieval history. He is also a frequent public speaker and media commentator on Church history and contemporary Catholicism.

Bellitto has written a variety of publications, including The Living Church and Church History 101 from Liguori Publications. He also offers professional development workshops on working with the media, publishing, writing outreach articles and essays, and speaking to a wide range of audiences.

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