VATICAN CITY – A new chapter in the history of the Roman Catholic Church is underway. White smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Thursday evening, announcing to the world that the 2025 conclave has successfully elected a new pope.
The decision came on the second day of the conclave, Thursday, May 8, 2025, following rounds of secret balloting by the 133 cardinal electors.
To be chosen, a candidate needed to secure at least a two-thirds majority — 89 votes — from the College of Cardinals, who have been sequestered within the Vatican since Wednesday.
Joyful Crowds Celebrate in St. Peter’s Square
Cheers erupted across St. Peter’s Square as the white plume billowed into the evening sky, accompanied by the tolling of the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Pilgrims and tourists from across the globe, many of whom had waited patiently in the square for hours, burst into applause and embraced one another in celebration.
“It’s such a powerful moment,” said one pilgrim from Argentina. “I’ve waited my whole life to witness this in person.”
The announcement also resonated around the world, with millions tuning in to livestreams and global broadcasts.
The symbolism of the white smoke, steeped in centuries of tradition, continues to unite the faithful in anticipation and reverence.
“Habemus Papam” Awaited
Attention now turns to the loggia — the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica — where the senior Cardinal Deacon will soon step forward to proclaim the momentous words: “Habemus Papam!” — Latin for “We have a pope!”
The cardinal will then reveal the name of the newly elected pontiff and the papal name he has chosen.
Shortly afterwards, the new pope is expected to emerge onto the balcony to greet the crowd and offer his first apostolic blessing, known as Urbi et Orbi — to the city and the world.
A Global and Historic Conclave
This conclave was notable for its diversity and scope.
Of the 133 electors, 108 were appointed by Pope Francis during his decade-long papacy, reflecting a deliberate effort to diversify the College of Cardinals by appointing members from regions previously underrepresented — including Mongolia, Tonga, and Sweden.
The breadth of representation added a layer of complexity to the voting process, with many observers predicting it might take several days to reach consensus.
That a decision was reached by the second day surprised some analysts, who noted the significance of unity in a global Church facing mounting social, moral, and political challenges.
A Moment of Solemn Preparation
Within the Sistine Chapel, the newly elected pope is now donning the traditional white papal vestments in a private chamber known as the Room of Tears — so named for the emotion often experienced at the weight of the responsibility.
As the world awaits his first appearance, Catholics and non-Catholics alike watch with anticipation.
Who he is, what name he has chosen, and the tone he will set for his papacy are questions that will be answered within moments.
But for now, the bells are ringing, the square is alive with celebration, and the Vatican has sent its clearest signal: Habemus Papam — we have a pope.
