VATICAN CITY – White smoke has billowed from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the College of Cardinals has successfully elected a new Pope on the second day of their secretive conclave. The swift selection, mirroring the previous two papal elections timeline, suggests that a leading candidate quickly garnered significant support among the 133 voting cardinals.
The identity of the new pontiff and the papal name he will adopt are expected to be revealed imminently. Crowds have gathered in St. Peter’s Square, awaiting their first glimpse of the man leading the world’s Catholics.
The historic “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a Pope!”) announcement will soon be delivered in Latin by the French Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Following this, the new Pope’s chosen name will be announced, and he will offer a brief address and prayer to the faithful. His formal coronation is anticipated to take place in the days following his election, a tradition that has seen the last two Popes inaugurated in St. Peter’s Square.
The coming days are set to be filled with celebration as the new pontiff’s name resonates in churches and masses globally, sparking particular joy in his homeland. Adding to the significance of his election is the upcoming Jubilee year in 2025, a significant celebration for the Catholic Church announced by Pope John Paul II 25 years ago, which will involve a busy schedule of Vatican-organized events.
As the white smoke dissipates, the world watches with anticipation for the unveiling of the new Pope, a figure who will navigate a complex global and internal landscape while leading hundreds of millions of Catholics into the future.
