Camerlingo meaning

A camerlingo is a high-ranking official in the Catholic Church responsible for the administration of the Vatican.


Camerlingo definitions

Word backwards ognilremac
Part of speech The word "camerlingo" is a noun.
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "camerlingo" is ca-mer-lin-go.
Plural The plural of the word camerlingo is camerlingos.
Total letters 10
Vogais (4) a,e,i,o
Consonants (6) c,m,r,l,n,g

Camerlingo

Definition and Role

A camerlingo, also known as chamberlain, is a high-ranking official in the Roman Catholic Church. The role of a camerlingo involves managing the finances and administration of the Holy See during the period of sede vacante, which is the vacancy of the papal office between the death or resignation of a pope and the election of a new one.

Historical Significance

The position of camerlingo has a long history within the Catholic Church, dating back to medieval times. The camerlingo was originally responsible for the Pope's income and possessions, as well as overseeing the papal treasury. Over the years, the role has evolved to include broader financial and administrative responsibilities, particularly during the transition between pontiffs.

Selection Process

Traditionally, the College of Cardinals would elect a camerlingo from among their own ranks during a papal conclave. The camerlingo would then serve until the election of a new pope. In modern times, the position is usually held by a cardinal and appointed by the pope, with the College of Cardinals approving the selection.

Key Responsibilities

The camerlingo is entrusted with the task of managing the temporal goods of the Holy See, ensuring a smooth transition of power between papal reigns, and overseeing the general administration of the Vatican during the sede vacante. This includes handling the finances, properties, and other assets of the Holy See.

Notable Camerlingo

One of the most famous camerlingos in recent history was Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, who served as camerlingo during the sede vacante following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013. Cardinal Bertone played a crucial role in preparing for the conclave that elected Pope Francis as the new Pontiff.


Camerlingo Examples

  1. The camerlingo was responsible for managing the Pope's finances.
  2. The camerlingo held the keys to the Vatican's treasury.
  3. The camerlingo oversaw the distribution of funds for charitable purposes.
  4. The camerlingo played a crucial role in the election of a new Pope.
  5. The camerlingo's duties included organizing papal ceremonies and events.
  6. The camerlingo was tasked with maintaining the Vatican's properties and assets.
  7. The camerlingo worked closely with the cardinals in the administration of the Holy See.
  8. The camerlingo was often referred to as the "chamberlain" in English.
  9. The camerlingo's office has a long history dating back to medieval times.
  10. The camerlingo's role was depicted in Dan Brown's novel, Angels & Demons.


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  • Updated 01/07/2024 - 05:54:08