Cardinals Elect New Pope as White Smoke Rises at Vatican

Cardinals Elect New Pope

The Roman Catholic Church has entered a historic moment as cardinals from around the world elected a new pope, signaled by the iconic white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel chimney at the Vatican. This age-old ritual marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Church and its 1.3 billion followers worldwide.

The Time-Honored Tradition of Papal Election

The papal conclave is one of the most sacred and secretive events in the Roman Catholic Church. It brings together cardinals under the age of 80 from across the globe, locking them inside the Sistine Chapel until they reach a decision on who will become the next spiritual leader. The process is steeped in centuries of tradition and symbolism, with white smoke serving as the unmistakable signal to the outside world that a new pope has been chosen.

On Thursday, the second day of the conclave, the world witnessed the plumes of white smoke rising into the sky over Vatican City at approximately 12:07 p.m. ET. This moment confirmed that the cardinals, after four rounds of voting, had come to a consensus.

Who Is the New Pope?

While the white smoke announced the successful election, the identity of the new pope was not immediately disclosed. Traditionally, after the smoke appears, the Vatican takes time to prepare the public announcement. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti is expected to step onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica later today to share the highly anticipated news.

In recent conclaves, the name of the newly elected pope has typically been revealed between 25 and 66 minutes after the white smoke appears. This means that the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, as well as millions watching around the world, will soon learn who will guide the Church as its 267th pontiff.

A Papacy Ends, Another Begins

This conclave follows the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 22 at the age of 88. Pope Francis leaves behind a profound legacy marked by humility, advocacy for the marginalized, and efforts to address critical global issues, including climate change, economic inequality, and interfaith dialogue. His passing marked the end of an era and paved the way for a new leader to take the helm of the Church.

A Global Church Awaits

The anticipation in St. Peter’s Square has been palpable, with thousands of faithful and tourists waiting for hours, their eyes fixed on the chimney above the Sistine Chapel. The moment the white smoke appeared, the crowd erupted in cheers, waving flags, singing, and praying together.

Even outside the Catholic world, the election of a new pope draws global attention. Leaders and public figures often weigh in, reflecting the pope’s influence as a global moral voice. President Donald Trump, when asked about the election, playfully remarked to reporters, “I saw the smoke, but I haven’t seen the pope.”

The Role of the New Pope

The man stepping into the papacy becomes not only the leader of the world’s largest Christian denomination but also a figure of immense political, cultural, and spiritual influence. The new pope will face a wide array of challenges, from navigating the Church’s stance on social issues to addressing declining membership in parts of the world and strengthening the Church’s mission in regions where Catholicism is growing.

Beyond religious matters, the pope is often a diplomatic figure, working to build bridges between nations and faiths. In a time of geopolitical tensions, humanitarian crises, and environmental concerns, the role of the pope extends far beyond the walls of the Vatican.

What Comes Next?

After the official announcement from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the new pope will address the world for the first time. Traditionally, he will deliver the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing — “to the city and the world” — which marks the formal beginning of his papacy.

In the coming days, the new pontiff will meet with cardinals, Vatican staff, and world leaders, and he will begin the work of setting his priorities for the Church. For the faithful, this is a time of celebration, hope, and renewed faith.

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Key Points

✅ White smoke from Sistine Chapel confirms new pope elected.
✅ The pope’s name will be announced soon from St. Peter’s Basilica.
✅ Pope Francis, who died April 22 at age 88, leaves a significant legacy.
✅ The new pope becomes the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
✅ Global audiences and leaders are watching this historic moment.

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