Cardinal

A cardinal is a senior prelate of the Catholic Church. Cardinals are appointed by the pope and are responsible for electing new popes, as well as advising the pope on matters of church doctrine and governance. Cardinals are typically archbishops or bishops of major dioceses, but they can also be other senior clergy, such as the heads of Vatican departments or religious orders. Cardinals wear a distinctive red hat and robe, which symbolizes their willingness to shed their blood for the church.

The College of Cardinals is the governing body of the Catholic Church during the sede vacante period, which is the time between the death or resignation of one pope and the election of his successor. During this time, the cardinals meet in conclave to elect a new pope.