Conclave

A senior ecclesiastical dignitary appointed by the pope and ordinarily incorporated into the College of Cardinals. Cardinals serve as principal advisers and collaborators of the Roman Pontiff; those under the prescribed age are ordinarily responsible for electing a new pope in conclave.

The body of cardinals of the Catholic Church. It assists the pope individually and collectively, and its eligible members elect a new Roman Pontiff in conclave when the Apostolic See becomes vacant.