[hoagy62]

Okay...a question for Catholics from a non-Catholic who is curious (and is interested in the pageantry and traditions of the church):

I went to EWTN and read the full statement the Pope made about his resignation. The part that hasn’t been seen on FR says that the resignation will take effect at 20:00 (8pm) local time on Feb. 28th.

Now, for the death of a pope, the College of Cardinals has to assemble within 15-20 days. I assume that the same time limit will be given upon the effective hour of Benedict’s resignation? Or, will the College be ready to go as soon as the resignation is effective?

I am assuming that having a Pope in office at Easter is going to be important.

(As a side note: I was too young to remember the election of Paul VI. I vividly remember the elections of JP1, JP2, and Benedict. I am very curious who is elected Pope next.)

[Cronos]

Your presumption is correct -- the college of Cardinals has to assemble before Easter and a new Pope in office at Easter is critical

So Pope Benedict is pushing the college to select someone quickly.