{"id":79212,"date":"2026-01-12T10:36:22","date_gmt":"2026-01-12T09:36:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/"},"modified":"2026-01-12T10:36:22","modified_gmt":"2026-01-12T09:36:22","slug":"how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/","title":{"rendered":"How does someone become a cardinal: complete essential guide: 5 steps"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_someone_become_a_cardinal_The_complete_guide\"><\/span>How does someone become a cardinal? The complete guide<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you have ever wondered, in practical terms, how does someone become a cardinal, you are not alone. The Catholic Church is global, complex, and centuries old, and the rank of cardinal is one of its most recognisable offices. Understanding who becomes a cardinal, why they are chosen, and what they do helps demystify how decisions at the heart of the Church are made, especially when it comes to electing a Pope and guiding the Church\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n<p>This clear, friendly guide explains what a cardinal is, the path and criteria typically involved, the formal steps from selection to the public ceremony, and the realities and misconceptions surrounding the process. By the end, you will have a practical grasp of how does someone become a cardinal and why this role matters for Catholics and observers alike.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_a_cardinal_and_why_it_matters\"><\/span>What is a cardinal and why it matters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A cardinal is a senior churchman in the Roman Catholic Church who serves as a principal adviser to the Pope. The College of Cardinals together acts as a consultative body and, crucially, is responsible for electing a new Pope in a conclave when the papacy is vacant. While bishops govern dioceses and carry out sacramental ministry, cardinals have a distinctive role that is organisational and advisory; many are also diocesan bishops or hold leadership posts in the Roman Curia.<\/p>\n<p>Importantly, being a cardinal is not a sacramental rank like deacon, priest, or bishop. It is an office conferred by the Pope. That is one reason people ask how does someone become a cardinal: because it is not achieved by ordination to a \u201cfourth\u201d sacramental level, but by papal appointment, typically recognising exemplary service, leadership, and trust.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Basic_concepts_behind_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\"><\/span>Basic concepts behind how does someone become a cardinal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Before looking at the steps, it helps to understand a few basics that shape how does someone become a cardinal in practice:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The College of Cardinals:<\/strong> This is the worldwide body of cardinals. Under current law, those under 80 years of age at the time a papal vacancy occurs are the cardinal electors who can vote in a conclave.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Orders of cardinals:<\/strong> Historically there are three ranks within the College\u2014cardinal bishops, cardinal priests, and cardinal deacons\u2014reflecting ancient Roman clergy structures. Today, these ranks indicate functions and seniority rather than sacramental differences.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Titular churches:<\/strong> Each new cardinal is assigned a church in Rome (or a suburbicarian see for certain senior cardinals) to symbolise their bond with the Diocese of Rome and its bishop, the Pope.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Age and numbers:<\/strong> There is a customary ceiling of 120 cardinal electors, originally set by St Paul VI and confirmed by St John Paul II, though recent Popes have occasionally exceeded this figure in practice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For the legal framework, see the canons on the College of Cardinals (cc. 349\u2013359) in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vatican.va\/archive\/cod-iuris-canonici\/eng\/documents\/cic_lib2-cann330-367_en.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Code of Canon Law<\/a>. The rules for papal elections are set out in St John Paul II\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vatican.va\/content\/john-paul-ii\/en\/apost_constitutions\/documents\/hf_jp-ii_apc_22021996_universi-dominici-gregis.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Universi Dominici Gregis<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step-by-step_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\"><\/span>Step-by-step: how does someone become a cardinal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There is no public job posting for cardinals, nor a formal application process. Still, the path usually follows recognisable stages. In broad outline, here is how does someone become a cardinal:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Distinguished priestly and episcopal service:<\/strong> The vast majority of new cardinals have long track records as priests and usually as bishops or archbishops. They are known for pastoral leadership, theological clarity, and fidelity to the Church\u2019s teaching and mission.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Appointment to a major see or Curial office:<\/strong> Many cardinals are archbishops of significant dioceses (for example, a national capital or a historic metropolitan see) or serve as prefects or secretaries of Vatican dicasteries (departments). These posts make their names stand out when the Pope considers candidates.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Papal discernment and selection:<\/strong> The Pope alone decides whom to create as cardinal. He seeks wide counsel, reviews dossiers, and often aims for a balance of pastoral experience, geographic representation, and specific expertise.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Announcement of a consistory:<\/strong> The Pope announces a consistory (a formal meeting of cardinals) and publishes a list of the men he intends to \u201ccreate\u201d as cardinals. From this moment the candidates are known as \u201ccardinals-designate\u201d.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Creation at the consistory:<\/strong> At the consistory in Rome, the Pope formally creates the cardinals, bestows the red biretta and ring, and assigns each a titular church, marking their incorporation into the clergy of Rome.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Oath and responsibilities:<\/strong> The new cardinals make a profession of faith and take an oath of fidelity. Those under 80 join the ranks of cardinal electors eligible to vote in a future conclave, and all new cardinals become advisers to the Pope according to their office and competence.<\/li>\n<li><strong>(Usually) episcopal consecration:<\/strong> If the new cardinal is not already a bishop, he is typically ordained a bishop unless the Pope dispenses him from that requirement for particular reasons.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_can_be_chosen_criteria_the_Pope_looks_for\"><\/span>Who can be chosen: criteria the Pope looks for<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Because the Pope has freedom in appointments, there is no fixed checklist. Yet several qualities help answer the question of how does someone become a cardinal:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Proven fidelity and judgement:<\/strong> A cardinal must be someone the Pope can trust with high-level counsel and governance.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pastoral leadership:<\/strong> Significant experience shepherding people\u2014often in diocesan leadership\u2014demonstrates real-world prudence and compassion.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Doctrinal soundness and theological formation:<\/strong> Many cardinals have postgraduate degrees in theology, canon law, or philosophy, and have taught or published.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Global representation:<\/strong> Recent Popes have expanded the geographic spread of the College, elevating leaders from growing or overlooked regions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Health, stamina, and availability:<\/strong> The role involves travel, meetings, and demanding responsibilities, especially for those in the Curia.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Age profile:<\/strong> While there is no minimum age in law beyond priestly ordination, most new cardinals are seasoned leaders. Those under 80 at the time of a papal vacancy will be electors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Typical_pathways_to_the_red_hat\"><\/span>Typical pathways to the red hat<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Although the Pope can choose whomever he judges fit, there are recognisable routes that explain how does someone become a cardinal in today\u2019s Church:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Major archdioceses:<\/strong> Archbishops of historic or populous sees\u2014such as those in capital cities or long-established centres\u2014are commonly created cardinals.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Roman Curia:<\/strong> Prefects or senior officials of key Vatican dicasteries are often made cardinals, reflecting their executive role in Church governance.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Eastern Catholic leaders:<\/strong> Patriarchs and major archbishops of Eastern Catholic Churches may be created cardinal bishops or cardinal priests, acknowledging their global leadership.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mission territories and the peripheries:<\/strong> Recent consistories have elevated pastors from places previously without a resident cardinal, underscoring evangelisation beyond traditional centres.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These paths illuminate how does someone become a cardinal: by faithful service where the needs of the Church are greatest, whether in the heart of Rome, a vast archdiocese, or the frontiers of mission.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_consistory_the_public_moment_someone_becomes_a_cardinal\"><\/span>The consistory: the public moment someone becomes a cardinal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The consistory is the ceremony in which the Pope formally creates new cardinals. The ritual includes the imposition of the red biretta, the giving of the cardinal\u2019s ring, and the assignment of a titular church. Beyond pageantry, it is a canonical act that brings the new cardinal into the College and into close collaboration with the Pope. For an overview of the structure and legal meaning, the canons cited earlier and the apostolic constitution <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vatican.va\/content\/john-paul-ii\/en\/apost_constitutions\/documents\/hf_jp-ii_apc_22021996_universi-dominici-gregis.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Universi Dominici Gregis<\/a> provide the authoritative context.<\/p>\n<p>In recent decades, the consistory has often been an occasion for the Pope to underline priorities\u2014such as evangelisation, social concern, or the importance of the peripheries\u2014by the places and profiles of the new cardinals chosen. This visible dimension helps many understand how does someone become a cardinal not just legally, but pastorally.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Duties_and_privileges_after_creation\"><\/span>Duties and privileges after creation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Once created, a cardinal\u2019s first duty is to support the Pope with advice and action. Depending on his role, he may lead a particular Church (as a diocesan bishop), head a Vatican department, serve on councils and commissions, or undertake special missions. If he is under 80, he will also be called to the conclave to elect a new Pope when the See of Rome is vacant.<\/p>\n<p>Cardinals rank as the Pope\u2019s principal collaborators, but they remain servants of the Church and people. The red colour of their attire symbolises a willingness to defend the faith, even to the shedding of blood. Understanding this symbolism helps answer how does someone become a cardinal in spirit: through a life oriented to sacrifice and service, not status.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_misconceptions_about_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\"><\/span>Common misconceptions about how does someone become a cardinal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>\u201cIt\u2019s a sacramental promotion.\u201d<\/strong> No. Being a cardinal is not a sacrament; it is an office conferred by the Pope. The sacramental hierarchy remains deacon, priest, bishop.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u201cYou can apply or campaign for it.\u201d<\/strong> No. There is no application or campaign. The Pope selects candidates discreetly, based on counsel and his judgement of the Church\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u201cCardinals are all from the same countries.\u201d<\/strong> Not today. The modern College is increasingly diverse, reflecting the global growth of Catholicism.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u201cThe \u2018Black Pope\u2019 is in charge of cardinals.\u201d<\/strong> The nickname \u201cBlack Pope\u201d refers to the Superior General of the Jesuits, not to a cardinal or to someone who outranks the Pope. For background, see this explanation of the <a href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/black-pope\/\">so-called \u2018Black Pope\u2019<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<div id='video-container' data-video-id='MbyoKYCuLOo' style='width:100%; height:auto; max-width:587px; position: relative;'>\n<div class='image-video-plugin' style='background:url(\"https:\/\/img.youtube.com\/vi\/MbyoKYCuLOo\/0.jpg\") center no-repeat; background-size: cover;'><\/div>\n<p>        <span class='youtube-play-button'><\/span><br \/>\n        <noscript><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=MbyoKYCuLOo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/noscript>\n    <\/div>\n<p><\/p>\n<p><strong>\u201cOrthodox and Catholic cardinals are the same.\u201d<\/strong> The title \u201ccardinal\u201d is specific to the Catholic Church. To understand differences in leadership structures and titles more broadly, see this overview of <a href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/orthodox-vs-catholic\/\">Orthodox vs Catholic<\/a> traditions.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Risks_responsibilities_and_everyday_realities\"><\/span>Risks, responsibilities, and everyday realities<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Cardinals live in the public eye. They must navigate media scrutiny, complex governance questions, and the pressing needs of their people. Travel and heavy workloads are common, especially for those in the Curia or in sprawling dioceses. These realities may shape how does someone become a cardinal in the Pope\u2019s discernment: he needs men of prayer, resilience, and prudence, not merely accomplishment.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Historical_notes_and_recent_examples\"><\/span>Historical notes and recent examples<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Historically, some cardinals were not bishops, and a few were even laymen until the early twentieth century. Today, Church law expects new cardinals to be at least priests and, normally, to receive episcopal consecration unless the Pope dispenses from it for specific reasons. Recent Popes have sometimes dispensed well-known pastors or theologians from becoming bishops when creating them cardinals, emphasising the service they already render.<\/p>\n<p>Recent consistories have illustrated the living answer to how does someone become a cardinal: Popes highlight missionary dynamism by elevating bishops from fast-growing Churches, honour pastoral courage in challenging contexts, and recognise the vital work of Vatican departments that serve local Churches worldwide.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recommended_external_resources\"><\/span>Recommended external resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vatican.va\/archive\/cod-iuris-canonici\/eng\/documents\/cic_lib2-cann330-367_en.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Code of Canon Law: Canons on the College of Cardinals (cc. 349\u2013359)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vatican.va\/content\/john-paul-ii\/en\/apost_constitutions\/documents\/hf_jp-ii_apc_22021996_universi-dominici-gregis.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Universi Dominici Gregis: Apostolic Constitution on the vacancy of the Apostolic See and the election of the Roman Pontiff<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/topic\/cardinal-Roman-Catholicism\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Encyclopaedia Britannica: Cardinal (Roman Catholicism)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cardinal_(Catholic_Church)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wikipedia: Cardinal (Catholic Church)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Related_articles\"><\/span>Related articles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/black-pope\/\">Why the Jesuit leader is nicknamed the \u2018Black Pope\u2019<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/orthodox-vs-catholic\/\">Key differences between Orthodox and Catholic Churches<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions_about_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions about how does someone become a cardinal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_a_cardinal_have_to_be_a_bishop\"><\/span>Does a cardinal have to be a bishop?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>By current law, those created cardinals should be at least priests, and if not already bishops they are ordinarily consecrated bishops after creation. However, the Pope may dispense from episcopal ordination for particular reasons. This flexibility has been used for respected theologians or senior pastors whose current ministry is better served without becoming diocesan bishops.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_a_layperson_be_made_a_cardinal_today\"><\/span>Can a layperson be made a cardinal today?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In past centuries, there were a few \u201clay cardinals\u201d, but that practice ceased. Today, canon law expects cardinals to be at least priests. While the Pope has very wide discretion, contemporary practice presumes clerical status, and the modern discipline has not included lay cardinals.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_old_are_cardinals_and_when_do_they_stop_voting\"><\/span>How old are cardinals, and when do they stop voting?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>There is no fixed age for creation, but most cardinals are seasoned leaders. Those who are under 80 at the time a papal vacancy occurs are eligible to vote in the conclave. After their 80th birthday, cardinals continue to serve the Church in various ways but no longer participate as electors.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_many_cardinal_electors_are_there\"><\/span>How many cardinal electors are there?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The customary ceiling for voting cardinals is 120, a limit shaped by twentieth-century reforms, although recent Popes have periodically exceeded that number. The overall size of the College (including non-electors over 80) is larger, and it fluctuates as new cardinals are created and others age out or die.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_happens_at_a_consistory\"><\/span>What happens at a consistory?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Pope publicly \u201ccreates\u201d the new cardinals, confers the red biretta and ring, and assigns a titular church in Rome. The cardinals make a profession of faith and oath of fidelity, and those under 80 join the roster of potential papal electors. The ceremony is the visible culmination of how does someone become a cardinal.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_someone_refuse_to_become_a_cardinal\"><\/span>Can someone refuse to become a cardinal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>It is rare, but possible. A nominated person could ask to decline for grave reasons such as health. Ultimately, the Pope decides whether to accept such a request. Most nominees accept, recognising the call to serve the universal Church.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_women_become_cardinals\"><\/span>Do women become cardinals?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>No. Under current Catholic discipline, cardinals are chosen from among men who are at least priests. Since the Church reserves priestly ordination to men, women are not made cardinals. Women, however, hold many significant leadership and advisory roles in the Church, including within the Roman Curia.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion_on_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\"><\/span>Conclusion on how does someone become a cardinal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>At its heart, the answer to how does someone become a cardinal is simple: the Pope chooses men he trusts to advise him and to serve the Church\u2019s mission at the highest level. The visible ceremony of the consistory crowns a long arc of dedicated ministry\u2014often as a bishop or Vatican official\u2014and inserts the new cardinal into the College that elects the next Pope and supports the current one.<\/p>\n<p>Yet the process is not a ladder of personal promotion. It is a call to deeper service, symbolised by the red biretta that stands for courage and fidelity. Understanding how does someone become a cardinal\u2014through proven pastoral leadership, sound doctrine, global vision, and availability for demanding duties\u2014helps us see beyond the headlines to the purpose of the role itself.<\/p>\n<p>If you have ever felt that church governance is impenetrable, take this as a practical map: discernment by the Pope, a public act of creation at a consistory, and a life of counsel and service<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_86 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Alternar tabla de contenidos\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#How_does_someone_become_a_cardinal_The_complete_guide\" >How does someone become a cardinal? The complete guide<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#What_is_a_cardinal_and_why_it_matters\" >What is a cardinal and why it matters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Basic_concepts_behind_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\" >Basic concepts behind how does someone become a cardinal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Step-by-step_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\" >Step-by-step: how does someone become a cardinal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Who_can_be_chosen_criteria_the_Pope_looks_for\" >Who can be chosen: criteria the Pope looks for<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Typical_pathways_to_the_red_hat\" >Typical pathways to the red hat<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#The_consistory_the_public_moment_someone_becomes_a_cardinal\" >The consistory: the public moment someone becomes a cardinal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Duties_and_privileges_after_creation\" >Duties and privileges after creation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Common_misconceptions_about_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\" >Common misconceptions about how does someone become a cardinal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Risks_responsibilities_and_everyday_realities\" >Risks, responsibilities, and everyday realities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Historical_notes_and_recent_examples\" >Historical notes and recent examples<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Recommended_external_resources\" >Recommended external resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Related_articles\" >Related articles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Frequently_asked_questions_about_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\" >Frequently asked questions about how does someone become a cardinal<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Does_a_cardinal_have_to_be_a_bishop\" >Does a cardinal have to be a bishop?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Can_a_layperson_be_made_a_cardinal_today\" >Can a layperson be made a cardinal today?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#How_old_are_cardinals_and_when_do_they_stop_voting\" >How old are cardinals, and when do they stop voting?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#How_many_cardinal_electors_are_there\" >How many cardinal electors are there?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#What_happens_at_a_consistory\" >What happens at a consistory?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Can_someone_refuse_to_become_a_cardinal\" >Can someone refuse to become a cardinal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Do_women_become_cardinals\" >Do women become cardinals?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/how-does-someone-become-a-cardinal\/#Conclusion_on_how_does_someone_become_a_cardinal\" >Conclusion on how does someone become a cardinal<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How does someone become a cardinal? The complete guide If you have ever wondered, in practical terms, how does someone become a cardinal, you are not alone. The Catholic Church is global, complex, and centuries old, and the rank of cardinal is one of its most recognisable offices. Understanding who becomes a cardinal, why they &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":79213,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-79212","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-chiristian"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/79212","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=79212"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/79212\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/79213"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=79212"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=79212"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=79212"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}