What body elects the pope?
The College of Cardinals is the body that selects a new pope. This group consists of all members of the clergy with the title of cardinal which are under the age of 80. Although it is not mandatory to do so, the College of Cardinals has elected a new pope from among themselves in every Papal Conclave since 1378. As per Catholic tradition, any unmarried, baptized, adult male member of the Catholic Church may be elected by the College. The College is also the chief body that advises the Pope when the pontiff summons a consistory (formal meeting of all cardinals) to Rome.
