The Conclave as we know it today goes back to the Middle Ages, and was established to prevent a prolonged Vacant See (Sede Vacante) and outside interference. By Lisa Zengarini* The term “Conclave” comes from two Latin words: cum (with) and clavis (key). In Church terminology, it designates both the secluded place where the …

The death of a Pope marks the beginning of a series of events that lead to the eventual start of a conclave and election of a new Successor of St. Peter. We lay out in detail the events that lead to the election of a new Pope. By Lisa Zengarini …