The Conclave's Rules for Electing a Pope

The Conclave of 115 Cardinals from around the world has descended upon the Vatican, and very likely within the next few days and several votes by the electors, we will witness the rise of a leader of over one billion followers and the installation of a new Pope just in time for the celebration of Holy Week.

No conclave has lasted longer than four days since the early eighteen hundred's and with the Irish set to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in just five, I would say the odds of a quick election are rather high, although there have been occasions where the Cardinals took well over three years to elect a Pope.

But like any gathering where an election is to occur, there are rules and I took the pleasure of researching them for you, the humble reader of Pundit Press.

1. The Cardinals must remain locked behind closed doors, with no outside communication and or mobile devices until the election is concluded.

2. The Cardinals will vote four times every day until a Pope is elected, allowing them plenty of time and opportunities to select the right man.

3. In order to be elected Pope, one candidate must receive two-thirds or 66.6% of all votes cast, which requires compromise for success.

4. When the Conclave of Cardinals, having reached the 66.6% threshold for electing a new Pope to lead Catholics worldwide is eventually met, there will be white smoke coming from the Vatican's chimney to a  anxiously awaiting Church looking for a bright and fortunate history in the largest Christian domination.

Stay tuned for further updates and stories on this historic conclave.