A dignitary of the Roman Church and counsellor of the pope; they are addressed as "Your Emminence." Cardinals are chosen by the Pope and hold office through the remainder of their lives. The College of Cardinals, the name given to the group when gathered as a group, elects the Pope, often from their own ranks. There are 120 cardinals, chosen from around the planet; those over 80 years of age may not vote for a new pope. For a lengthier description, see the Catholic Encyclopedia.