Definition

Noun: - The Sacred College: The collective body of all cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church, whose primary functions are to advise the Pope and, upon his death, to meet in a conclave to elect his successor.

Usage

• The term is a formal and historical name for the College of Cardinals.
• It is typically used in religious, historical, and formal journalistic contexts when discussing the governance and succession within the Roman Catholic Church.
• It is often preceded by the definite article "the" (e.g., Sacred College).

Examples

• Following the Pope's announcement, the Sacred College was convened for a special consultation.
• The responsibility of electing a new pontiff falls to the Sacred College.
• He was appointed to the Sacred College in last year's consistory.

Advanced Usage

• "The Sacred College of Cardinals": This is the full and most precise title, often used interchangeably with "the Sacred College."
  • The Sacred College of Cardinals will enter the conclave next week.

Variants and Related Words

• College of Cardinals: The more common contemporary term for the same body.
• Cardinalate: The office, rank, or term of office of a cardinal.
• Conclave: The private meeting of the Sacred College/College of Cardinals held to elect a new Pope.

Synonyms

• College of Cardinals
• The Cardinals (when referring to the collective body in a formal context)

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Sacred College" specifically denotes the cardinals in their collective, institutional role as papal advisors and electors. It does not refer to a physical place of education.
• Its authority and procedures are defined by canon law and apostolic constitutions.

Noun

1. (Roman Catholic Church) the body of cardinals who advise the Pope and elect new Popes