Papal Conclave Day two LIVE: We have a new pope
On the second day of the Conclave, cardinals continue their deliberations behind closed doors to elect the next pope. White smoke will signal the moment of decision, marking a historic moment that will shape the future of the Catholic Church. Stay tuned as the world watches this pivotal event unfold live.
On the second day of the 2025 papal conclave, black smoke once again emerged from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling that no new pope has been elected. The 133 cardinal electors, representing 70 nations, need a two-thirds majority—89 votes—to choose a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away in April. Despite several ballots, no consensus has been reached, highlighting the wide range of perspectives within the College of Cardinals. After lunch at the Santa Marta residence, the cardinals returned for two more voting sessions in the afternoon. If a pope is elected, white smoke may be seen around 5:30 PM or, failing that, at 7:00 PM (1 pm. CT) . If no pope is chosen today, the process could extend beyond the one-day conclaves of 2005 and 2013 and resemble lengthier ones from previous decades.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, has emerged as a prominent contender, garnering attention for his diplomatic experience. However, some cardinals express reservations about his administrative focus, preferring a leader with strong pastoral qualities. Other potential candidates include Cardinals Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Luis Antonio Tagle, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences. The electors are navigating complex theological and ideological considerations, aiming to select a pope who can address contemporary challenges facing the Church. The process underscores the balance between tradition and the need for renewal within the Catholic hierarchy.
Vatican conclave blends tradition and secrecy as Church faces global challenges
The conclave's proceedings are steeped in centuries-old rituals, emphasizing the gravity of the decision at hand. Cardinals participate in daily Masses, prayers, and reflections, seeking divine guidance in their deliberations. The use of black or white smoke signals the outcome of each voting session, a tradition that captivates the faithful worldwide. Security measures, including electronic jamming and restricted access, ensure the confidentiality of the proceedings. The Vatican's commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the conclave reflects its significance in shaping the future of the Church.
The global Catholic community watches with anticipation, aware that the new pope will inherit a complex landscape. Issues such as clerical abuse scandals, declining church attendance in some regions, and debates over social teachings present significant challenges. The next pontiff will need to navigate these concerns while fostering unity among diverse cultural and theological perspectives. The selection process aims to identify a leader capable of guiding the Church through these multifaceted issues with wisdom and compassion. The conclave's outcome will have profound implications for the direction of Catholicism in the coming years.
2025 Vatican conclave's diverse cardinals await the election of the new pope amid growing anticipation
As the conclave progresses, the cardinals remain committed to discerning the Holy Spirit's guidance in their decision-making. The process may continue for several days, with multiple ballots cast each day until a consensus is reached. The anticipation builds among the faithful, who gather in St. Peter's Square and follow news updates closely. The eventual appearance of white smoke will signal the election of the new pope, followed by the traditional announcement, "Habemus Papam." Until then, the world waits in hopeful expectation for the emergence of the Church's next spiritual leader.
The 2025 conclave is notable for its unprecedented diversity, reflecting Pope Francis's efforts to internationalize the College of Cardinals. This diversity brings a wealth of perspectives to the deliberations, enriching the decision-making process. However, it also introduces complexities as cardinals reconcile varying priorities and visions for the Church's future. The conclave serves as a microcosm of the global Church, highlighting both its unity and diversity. The outcome will shape the Church's engagement with contemporary issues and its role on the world stage.
New Pope Elected: White Smoke Signals Historic Moment at the Vatican
White smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel chimney signaled to the world that the 267th pope has been elected, prompting cheers from thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Although the identity of the new pontiff remains unknown for now, he will succeed the late Pope Francis. According to Vatican tradition, his name will be revealed when he steps onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first blessing.
Before appearing in public, the newly elected pope is led to the Room of Tears, located near the Sistine Chapel, where he dons the papal vestments for the first time. During this time, the youngest cardinal deacon informs the Secretary of the College of Cardinals and the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations to prepare for the next ceremonial steps.
New Pope accepts election and takes office with traditional "Habemus Papam" announcement
The pope-elect is formally asked if he accepts his canonical election as Supreme Pontiff. Upon acceptance, he chooses a papal name, which is officially documented. At that moment, he assumes full authority over the Catholic Church, becoming its spiritual and administrative leader.
The world will then hear the traditional announcement “Habemus Papam” from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. The new pope will appear to give the Apostolic Blessing “Urbi et Orbi,” marking the beginning of his pontificate and a new chapter for the global Catholic community.
Pope Leo XIV begins Papacy with message of peace and tribute to Pope Francis
The newly elected pope, 69 years old, then stepped out onto the balcony to address the public for the first time. His opening words, “Peace be with you,” set a calm and hopeful tone for the beginning of his papacy. The moment was emotional, filled with symbolism and anticipation.
In his speech, the new pope honored his predecessor, Pope Francis, recalling the blessing he offered to the world on Easter morning. He expressed his intent to continue that legacy, affirming, “God loves us. God loves everyone. Evil will not prevail,” emphasizing unity, hope, and divine love.
