Vatican City, Feb 20, 2013 / 08:55 am
Pope Benedict XVI is considering modifying the laws that govern how a Pope is elected, given the circumstances created by his resignation.
Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Holy See Press Office, told journalists Feb. 20 that Pope Benedict is thinking about publishing a document to further clarify the conclave section of the Apostolic Constitution.
This means he would have to issue a motu proprio – a new set of legal regulations – before he steps down on Feb. 28. The Latin title "motu proprio" is a designation that means the document is personally signed by the Pope and is issued solely under his authority.
"I don't know if he will deem it necessary or appropriate to elucidate the question of the opening date of the conclave," said Fr. Lombardi today at the press office.