Cardinals voting in the papal conclave 2025 have elected a new Pope, indicated by the emergence of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney Thursday afternoon. The selection marks the conclusion of the process to choose the next leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
Cheers erupted across St. Peter's Square as the smoke transitioned from black, signaling an inconclusive vote earlier, to white, followed by the pealing of church bells. Thousands of faithful gathered below watched the signal confirming the cardinals had reached the two-thirds majority required for election.
The identity of the New Pope Elected is expected to be revealed shortly. Tradition dictates the senior cardinal deacon will appear on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to announce “Habemus Papam” — “We have a pope.” The new pontiff will then appear before the assembled crowds.
This election occurred on the second day of the proceedings. Black smoke had risen following previous ballots, including after the morning sessions on Thursday and the first ballot on Wednesday night. The cardinals, 133 strong, were sequestered from the outside world, barred from contact while casting votes.
The atmosphere in St. Peter's Square shifted from anticipation seen throughout the morning, where crowds waited for the conclave live stream and smoke signals, to one of overt joy. People embraced and wept at the sight of the white smoke.
Cardinals began voting Wednesday afternoon after taking secrecy oaths. The subsequent votes unfolded over Thursday morning and afternoon. This Pope Conclave, the first since 2013 when Pope Francis was elected, involved a diverse group of cardinal electors, many participating for the first time.
Preparations inside the Vatican included simple meals for the cardinals and measures to ensure their isolation. Local businesses near the Vatican reported disruptions, including issues with phone signals, during the sequestration period.
Discussions among observers and participants in St. Peter's Square leading up to the white smoke signal touched upon hopes for the new pontiff's vision and the changing demographics of the College of Cardinals, with increasing representation from outside Europe.
The newly elected Pope will now select a papal name and don the papal cassock and ceremonial ring before presenting himself to the world.
Roseleia Cordeiro, 42, from Brazil, shared her feelings in St. Peter's Square, saying, “I’m so happy, it’s so incredible to be here at this moment.”
