Papal appointment

The pope has always been selected by a council of Church Fathers. This is known as papal appointment. In modern days, there is the papal conclave. Senior church officials meet, and discuss abut a new pope. One of the people attending the conclave will become the new pope. Certain rulers also had the right to propose one or more candidates, which would usually get elected.

Christ appointing Saint Peter, as the first pope. Detail of a 16th century painting by Petro Perugino.