The College of Cardinals is a body of senior church officials in the Roman Catholic Church. Its primary role is to advise the Pope and elect a new Pope when the position becomes vacant. Cardinals are appointed by the Pope and typically come from various countries, representing the global nature of the Church. Members of the College are usually bishops or archbishops, but some may be priests or theologians. The College is divided into different ranks, including cardinal bishops, cardinal priests, and cardinal deacons, each with specific responsibilities and privileges within the Church's hierarchy.