The Name: The word "Pope" comes from the medieval Latin word for "father" (papa).
The First Pope: St. Peter, born Simon Bar-Jona. Jesus says: "I say to thee: That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church."
Titles: In addition to the title Pope, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church is also called Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Christ, Successor to the Prince of Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, Patriarch of the West, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Sovereign of the State of Vatican City, and Servant of the Servants of God.
How the Pope is Chosen: Upon the death of a pope, a successor is selected by the College of Cardinals in secret assembly, the election requiring two-thirds plus one vote. This procedure has been followed since the 11th century.
Who Can Be Pope: Theoretically, any baptized male can become Pope. From the 16th century on, Popes have all been Cardinals. Prior to that time, one didn't even need to be ordained as a Priest to be chosen Pope.
Pope As Innovator: The pendulum clock and the introduction of Arabic numerals into western Europe are said to be the work of Sylvester II, the first Frenchman to become Pope.
Pope as Ruler: The Pope is not only a spiritual leader but also a head of state as ruler of Vatican City, a politically independent part of Rome, with a population of under 1,000.
Infallibility: The Roman Catholic Church holds that according to the rule of infallibility, God does not allow the Pope to make mistakes in matters of faith and morals.
Pope Joan: Legend says a woman disguised as a man became pope in the ninth century. Over 500 writers mention Pope Joan in the period between early medieval times to the end of the 17th century. Skeptics say she was an invention of the Protestants, who wanted to embarrass the church. Believers say the church deliberately concealed information about her papacy.
How Many: There have been 265 Popes.
[This message has been edited by Eudaemonistic_SOB (edited 04-01-2005).]
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