The period between the pope’s death and the election of his successor is called the interregnum. Election of the new pope is the prerogative of the College of Cardinals, who meet within 15 to 20 days in the Sistine Chapel to choose his successor from among their number by secret ballot.

Addressing the Pope in Person. Refer to the Pope as “Holy Father.” Other appropriate ways to address the Pope in person include “Your Holiness” and “Most Holy Father.” “His Holiness” and “Holy Father” both address the Pope by his title and position in the Church.

The most commonly named candidate is Cardinal Sarah, arguably the most prominent cardinal from Africa. Many believe he will be the one cardinals will nominate to the Chair of St. Peter when Pope Francis steps down.

The pope’s hat may refer to: Papal tiara, a jewelled three-tiered crown used at papal coronations from 1305 through 1963. Mitre, a high liturgical headdress made of plain white silk (Mitre Simplex) or highly decorated (Mitre Pretiosa)

Zucchetto

In the Catholic Church, the clerical collar is worn by all ranks of clergy, thus: bishops, priests, and deacons, and often by seminarians as well as with their cassock during liturgical celebrations.

The presence of a pectoral cross is useful to distinguish a bishop from a monsignor, since they wear similar cassocks. In choir dress—that is, when he wears a cassock, rochet and mozzetta—the pectoral cross is usually suspended by a cord of silk.

Cardinals often wear a maroon clergy shirt because they hold a higher position in the church than a Bishop. Purple is also used to designate a specific position in the church, such as Bishop or senior Bishop. This colour can also imply that the clergy holds a specific position in the church.

The mitre

An ecclesiastical ring is a finger ring worn by clergy, such as a bishop’s ring.

The papal ring is one of the most powerful symbols of the pontiff’s authority. It is worn on the right hand, and kissing it is a sign of obedience and respect. It is a tradition dating back hundreds of years.

The traditional act of kissing of the ring — which in the Catholic tradition is worn in by bishops, cardinals and the pope — has historically symbolized respect for the office. “When one greeted Ramses or Nebuchadnezzar, I’m sure it was common practice to bow and kiss one’s ring.”