In this week's conversation between Dr. James Emery White and co-host Alexis Drye, they take time to discuss all things related to the pope in light of the recent death of Pope Francis at the age of 88. He served as the head of the Catholic Church for 12 years, and his death certainly sparked a media storm. So this episode takes time to explore the history of the office of the pope, how future popes are elected through the process of the conclave, and more.

Dr. White mentioned the attention that the 2024 movie Conclave, has been getting, particularly since Pope Francis passed away. Holly Meyer wrote an article recently for Associated Press News titled, “So you saw ‘Conclave' the movie. Here's what it got right – and wrong – about real-life conclaves.” You can read that article HERE.

And then, if this episode sparked an interest in learning more about the papacy, here are a number of articles we'd suggest you check out:

“What are the Catholic Church's rites after the death of a pope and the election of a new one?” Los Angeles Times.

Russell Moore, “A US Evangelical Considers Pope Francis,” Christianity Today.

Olivia B. Waxman, “Pope Francis, the ‘World's Parish Priest' Who Led in an Era of Crisis, Dies at 88,” Time.

Joel Hodge and Antonia Pizzey, “Pope Francis has died, aged 88. These were his greatest reforms – and controversies,” The Conversation.

Thomas Reese, “Why the synod on synodality is confusing to American Catholics,” National Catholic Reporter.

“Sede vacante: What happens now, and who is in charge?” The Pillar.

Greta Cross, “Conclave smoke: What black and white smoke signal during election of a new pope,” USA Today.

Colleen Barry, “Tens of thousands file into St. Peter's Basilica to pay final respects to Pope Francis,” AP News.

Ross Douthat, “Can the Catholic Church Quit the Culture Wars?” The New York Times.

Marc Ramirez, “Pope Francis was the first Jesuit pope of the Catholic Church. What is a Jesuit?” USA Today.

Matthew Walther, “The Real Legacy of Pope Francis,” The Atlantic.

Brian McGill & Marcus Walker, “Picking a Pope: Inside the World's Most Secretive Election,” The Wall Street Journal.

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