How Popes are elected

When a Pope dies,1 the "Cardinal Camerlengo" (Cardinal Chamberlain, known as the "Camerarius" in Latin) first verifies the death. Traditionally, this is done by striking the Pope's forehead gently thrice with a silver hammer while asking him, using his Baptismal name, if he is dead, e.g., "Karol Wojtyla, are you dead?" When there is no response from the dead Pope, the Camerlengo solemnly announces his death and removes the Fisherman's ring from the dead …

…few previous generations, and if they have the intelligence and fortitude to learn what has not been taught to them and to proclaim Tradition, the rule might serve its opposite intended effect more quickly. 3 "Cardinal Deacons" originally were members of the Roman Curia, theologians especially honored by the Pope, deacons who assist in the papal household, and the deacons who administer to the Roman dioceses. They were not members of the electing College of Cardinals.