A Brief History Originally, the Pope was chosen by the senior clergy of Rome. In 1059, this responsibility was restricted to the Cardinals of the Holy Roman Church. Today, only Cardinals under the age of 80 at the time of a papal vacancy are eligible to vote. Since the Pope is also the Bishop of Rome, only someone eligible to be ordained a bishop can be elected. Technically, this means any baptized Catholic male could be chosen. (Fun fact: Pope … Continue reading How is the Pope Elected?