When a newly elected Pope takes office, one of the first people he meets is the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church. The Camerlengo is a high-ranking official in the Vatican who is responsible for managing the finances and property of the Holy See during the interregnum, the period between the death or resignation of a Pope and the election of his successor. The Camerlengo plays a crucial role in the transition of power within the Vatican, as he is responsible for overseeing the funeral arrangements of the deceased Pope, as well as the conclave to elect a new Pontiff. He also holds the keys to the papal apartments and the papal ring, which are traditionally destroyed after the death of a Pope to prevent any unauthorized use. In addition to meeting the Camerlengo, the newly elected Pope also meets with other high-ranking officials within the Vatican, such as the Secretary of State, who is considered the Pope's chief advisor and oversees the diplomatic activities of the Holy See. The Secretary of State plays a key role in helping the Pope navigate the complex world of international relations and diplomacy. It is important for the newly elected Pope to establish relationships with these key Vatican officials early on in his pontificate, as they will play a crucial role in helping him govern the Catholic Church and carry out his duties as the spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide. For more information on the role of the Camerlengo and other key Vatican officials, you can visit the official Vatican website at www.vatican.va. Here, you can find detailed information on the structure and hierarchy of the Holy See, as well as the history and traditions of the papacy. In conclusion, the first person a newly elected Pope meets is the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, who plays a crucial role in managing the transition of power within the Vatican. Establishing relationships with key Vatican officials early on in his pontificate is essential for the Pope to effectively govern the Catholic Church and carry out his duties as the spiritual leader of the faithful.

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