The Latest Breaking News from the College of Cardinals

Nothing has changed in his status, role or power since Francis was elected the 266th pope on March 13, 2013

Pope Francis has thrown a wrench in some of the speculation about a future conclave

Pope Francis recently appointed Cardinal Robert McElroy, a harsh critic of President-elect Donald Trump’s immigration policy, to head the Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.

The new film Conclave is a psychological thriller looking at the selection of the new pope. But what is a conclave, and where did this ritual begin?

Pope Francis is installing 21 new cardinals, many of whom are key figures in his reform agenda

Ukraine-born Mikola Bychok will become the only Australian resident in the powerful Catholic church position and the youngest cardinal overall

The surprise move means Francis has picked 112 of 142 voting-age members of the College of Cardinals, which has a technical limit of 120.

Pope Francis appoints 21 new cardinals, diversifying the College of Cardinals globally and solidifying his influence.

The pontiff opens synod on synodality, sparking hope for change among progressives and concern among conservatives.

On Sept. 30, 2023, Pope Francis swore in 21 clergymen as new members of the College of Cardinals. The College is an important part of the church’s governance structure – each new member takes a formal oath during a ritual ceremony in the presence of present members of the College.

Pope Francis' surgery to repair a hernia in his abdominal wall has raised questions about what happens to papal power when Francis is unconscious or unable to lead the church