Abstract
Benedict XVI is the first Pope in the last 600 years to resign from the Chair of Peter. On February 28th, at 8:00 PM Rome time, the Apostolic See will become officially "vacant" and Cardinals from all over the world will be called to Rome for the conclave that will elect the new pope. Benedict's resignation sets an important precedent, but it also raises difficult questions. The conclave of 2013 is unchartered territory not only for the Vatican, but also for the universal Church. To understand the implications and consequences of Pope Benedict XVI's resignation, the Theology Department of the University of St. Thomas organized a panel aimed at understanding the historical and theological meaning of this unprecedented event in Church history. How does the conclave work? What is its history? Who are the cardinal electors in 2013? Will we have an American Pope? What issues will be discussed in the conclave? What are the consequences of the conclave for the local Churches? Three members of the Theology Department will give short presentations, followed by a Q&A session.
Dr. Michael Hollerich : Papal Elections in Ancient and Modern Times
Dr. Massimo Faggioli: The Conclave of 2013 and Its Meaning
Dr. Gerald Schlabach: The Roman Papacy and Global Christianity