To become a cardinal in the Catholic Church, the process involves several key steps and is ultimately at the discretion of the pope:
- Become a Priest : The minimum requirement is to be ordained at least to the order of priesthood (presbyterate). This involves years of theological education, seminary training, and ordination by a bishop
- Become a Bishop (usually) : Most cardinals are bishops or archbishops. While not strictly mandatory, canon law generally requires that priests appointed as cardinals be consecrated as bishops, though exceptions exist, especially for older priests or those granted a papal dispensation
- Distinguished Service and Reputation : Candidates for the cardinalate are typically outstanding in doctrine, morals, piety, and prudence in practical matters. They often hold significant roles such as leading important dioceses or serving in the Roman Curia
- Appointment by the Pope : The pope alone selects and appoints cardinals. There is no application process; the pope chooses based on his judgment of the candidate’s qualifications and contributions to the Church
- Formal Creation : New cardinals are formally created in a consistory, a public ceremony presided over by the pope, which makes their appointment official
In summary, becoming a cardinal requires first becoming a priest, typically advancing to bishop or archbishop, demonstrating exceptional service and virtue, and then being personally selected by the pope for elevation to the College of Cardinals
