Structure of the Roman Catholic Church

The structure or organization of the Roman Catholic Church is hierarchical (organized into ranks).

The Pope is the head. Below him are Patriarchs, Metropolitans, Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, Priests, and other members of the clergy. The laity, who are at the bottom, are considered the foundation of the Church.

The Pope is the head of the Catholic Church. The Pope, who is the head of the Universal Church, is also the Bishop of Rome. The Pope is the Vicar of Christ, the successor of Peter the Apostle.

The Pope is credited with the gift of infallibility in matters of Christian doctrine and morals, and his words are deemed as being inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Papal Election

In theory, any practicing male Catholic can be elected as the Pope. In reality, a Cardinal from the College of Cardinals is chosen as the Pope. 

The Pope is elected by the College of Cardinals that constitutes all Cardinals of the Catholic Church under the age of 80 years. The election is quite unlike other elections we witness, and is considered inspired by the Holy Spirit. A cardinal usually requires a two-third majority for being elected as the Pope. 

The priest is the laity's first and nearest contact with the Church.
The Church is the Body of Christ. The laity, who are the members of the Church, are in turn members of the Body of Christ. 

Status of Churches

The Churches are Patriarchal Churches, Major Archiepiscopal Churches, Metropolitan Churches, and Others.

The Oriental Churches or Eastern Catholic Churches are governed by a hierarch who is a Patriarch, a Major Archbishop, or a Metropolitan.