How New Bishops are Appointed
- The Conference of Bishops maintains a list of priests who are suited to become bishops ("episcopabili"). It must update this list at least every three years.
- Bishops are required to resign at age 75 or if ill-health or other grave problems render them unsuited for fulfilling their office.
- The papal nuncio consults with the administrators of the diocese and other local bishops.
- The nuncio makes a short list (normally three--nicknamed a "terna").
- Rome selects one of the candidates or asks for a new list.
The episcopabili should:
- be at least 35 years old,
- have been a priest for at least 5 years,
- be "outstanding in strong faith, good morals, piety, zeal for souls, wisdom, prudence and human virtues,"
- possess the other qualities needed for fulfilling the office in question,
- be well versed in sacred Scripture, theology and canon law and, preferably, hold a doctorate in one of these fields.