White Smoke Rises: Vatican Elects New Pope Following Pope Francis's Passing

 

White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney at 6:08 p.m. local time on Thursday, signaling the election of a new pope by the College of Cardinals. This traditional sign, known as "fumata bianca," indicates that the 133 cardinal electors gathered in conclave have reached the required two-thirds majority to elect the 267th pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church.

The conclave was convened following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, due to complications from respiratory illness, a stroke, and heart failure. The election process began on May 7 and concluded on its second day, aligning with the recent trend of relatively swift papal selections.

As per tradition, the identity of the newly elected pope will be announced shortly from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica with the proclamation "Habemus Papam!" ("We have a pope!"). The new pontiff will then appear to address the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square. Until the official announcement, the name and chosen papal title remain confidential.

he election of a new pope is a momentous event for the approximately 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the Church's history. The new pope's leadership will shape the direction of the Church in addressing contemporary challenges and guiding the spiritual lives of its followers.

Further updates will follow as more information becomes available regarding the identity and vision of the newly elected pope.