Habemus Papam: Catholic Church Welcomes a New Pope

A New Pope Has Been Elected: White Smoke Rises from the Sistine Chapel

VATICAN CITY — The centuries-old tradition unfolded once again as white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that a new pope has been chosen. The announcement brought jubilant cheers from thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, confirming that the 2025 papal conclave has reached a decision.

To be elected pope, a candidate must receive at least two-thirds of the votes—at least 89 out of 133 voting cardinals. The results are first indicated by the smoke: black means no decision, white means Habemus Papam—we have a pope.

What Happens Next

The identity of the new pontiff will be revealed when a senior cardinal steps onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and proclaims in Latin: “Habemus Papam!” He will then announce the new pope’s birth name and the papal name he has chosen. The newly elected pope will make his first public appearance moments later to deliver his initial blessing to the faithful from the same balcony.

Inside the Conclave: How a Pope Is Chosen

The papal election process is held in strict secrecy. The 133 voting cardinals of the College of Cardinals are secluded inside the Vatican, where they spend their time in prayer, reflection, and casting ballots until consensus is reached. Voting takes place twice each morning and afternoon until a new pope is confirmed. After each vote, the ballots are burned. Special chemicals are used to produce either black or white smoke to inform the outside world of the outcome.

Who Were the Papal Contenders?

While no official candidates are ever declared, several cardinals are often seen as potential frontrunners—known as papabili. Some of the leading names ahead of the conclave included:

Cardinal Pietro Parolin – A key figure in Vatican diplomacy who is overseeing the conclave proceedings.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle – Dubbed the “Asian Francis,” known for his humility and connection to the global south.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu – A conservative voice from the Congo with growing influence.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa – The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, who could become the first Italian pope in decades.

As the world waits to learn who the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church will be, one thing is certain: a new chapter for the faith’s 1.3 billion followers has just begun.