In this episode of "This Podcast is Not Real," our AI hosts take you deep inside the ancient and secretive process of papal succession.
When a pope dies or resigns, the Vatican enters a period known as Sede Vacante, where the Camerlengo steps in to manage the Church’s day-to-day affairs—with strictly limited powers.
We explore:
The role and authority of the Camerlengo during the transition
The intense secrecy and rituals of the Papal Conclave
How cardinals vote and how the famous smoke signals announce the results
And what happens in the first moments after a new pope is chosen
From ancient traditions to modern pressures, discover how the world's most influential spiritual leader is selected behind closed doors.
