In a moment steeped in centuries of tradition, white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel today at 6:09 p.m. Rome time, announcing the election of the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. The College of Cardinals, which has been sequestered in the Vatican since May 7, has reached a decision after days of prayer, discernment, and secret balloting.
The sight of the white smoke brought waves of applause, prayers, and tears of joy from the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, who have been vigilantly watching the chimney for this historic sign. The newly elected pope will soon emerge onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first blessing, known as the “Urbi et Orbi,” to the city and to the world.
Catholics worldwide now wait in prayerful anticipation to learn the identity of the Church’s new shepherd and the name he has chosen, a name that often carries a powerful message about his vision for the papacy.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as more details about the new pope are revealed.
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