Abdication is the term that describes the resignation of a pope or bishop. In the case of Pope Benedict XVI, however, the Church prefers the term 'resignation.'
The pope is replaced when he dies or retires or resigns.
The pope remains in office until death unless he resigns.
The cardinal electors come together in a conclave to elect a new pope.
If the reigning pontiff dies or resigns it is necessary for the College of Cardinals to elect a new pope.
Of course! A new pope would not even be elected unless the sitting pope either dies or resigns.
The pope will stay in office till his death or if he resigns. Which is highly unlikely. Hope that helps!
Yes. Whenever a pope dies or resigns the papal ring and papal seals are destroyed.
The next conclave to elect a pope will occur a few days after Pope Francis either dies or resigns.
Unless he resigns, he serves until he dies.
The period of a pope's term in office is called a papacy. There is no fixed term length, as a pope serves for life unless he resigns or is otherwise unable to fulfill his duties. The papacy continues until the death or resignation of the pope, after which a new pope is elected.
Popes are elected for life unless they should resign. Therefore, a pope is not elected every year, only when a pope dies or resigns. The current pope (2013) is Pope Francis. He replaced Pope Benedict XVI who resigned after being pope since April of 2005.
No, they are all dead. The position of pope is held until the person dies or resigns.