White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney Thursday, signaling the election of a new pope to lead the Catholic Church. The smoke means at least 89 of the 133 eligible cardinals reached consensus during the afternoon voting session. Cheers erupted in St. Peter’s Square as thousands gathered to witness the historic moment.
The identity of the new pope will be announced shortly, when a senior cardinal steps onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and proclaims "Habemus Papam" — Latin for "We have a pope!" — followed by the chosen name. The new pontiff will then appear to give his first public blessing.
The election comes after earlier rounds of voting failed to produce a result, extending anticipation across the globe. The conclave follows the resignation of Pope Francis, marking the end of a historic papacy and setting the stage for new leadership during a pivotal moment for the global Church.
