The requirements to become Pope are both formal (canonical) and informal, shaped by tradition and Church law:
Formal Requirements
- Baptized Catholic Male: The candidate must be a baptized male Catholic
- Sound Mind and Use of Reason: The candidate must be mentally competent
- Eligible for Episcopal Ordination: If not already a bishop, the elected individual must be ordained a bishop immediately before assuming the papacy
- Acceptance of Election: The candidate must accept the election to become pope
- Not Excommunicated or Canonically Impeded: The candidate must be free of canonical penalties that would bar him from office
- Minimum Age: Generally accepted to be at least 35 years old, having studied theology, canon law, or related fields
Informal and Practical Considerations
- Usually a Cardinal: While canon law does not require the pope to be a cardinal, in modern times the pope is almost always chosen from the College of Cardinals
- Good Health and Stamina: Given the demanding nature of the role, physical health is a key consideration
- Age: Typically under 80 years old, as cardinals over 80 cannot vote and younger candidates are preferred for leadership longevity
- Reputation and Leadership: The candidate is expected to have a clean reputation, spiritual depth, theological expertise, leadership skills, and a global pastoral vision
- Celibacy: The pope is unmarried and celibate, consistent with Catholic clerical discipline
Election Process
- The pope is elected by a conclave of cardinals who vote in secrecy until a candidate receives a two-thirds majority
In summary, the pope must be a baptized Catholic male of sound mind, eligible for episcopal ordination, usually a cardinal, and elected by the College of Cardinals. The candidate is expected to have theological education, leadership qualities, good health, and accept the election before becoming pope
