New Pope elected: Cardinal Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV
The Vatican and the Catholic Church officially have a new Pope. After a two-day conclave, Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, set to carry forward the legacy of Pope Francis.
Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the papal name of Pope Leo XIV. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church after the passing of Pope Francis. The announcement came after a highly anticipated conclave that lasted two days, beginning on May 7.
The election was officially confirmed with the appearance of white smoke rising from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on the afternoon of May 8. This traditional signal indicated that the voting cardinals had reached a two-thirds majority and made their decision on the new pope. The event was met with excitement and anticipation by thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
Cardinal Robert Prevost elected as Pope Leo XIV after historic two-day Conclave
On the afternoon of May 8, white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that the cardinals had reached a two-thirds majority and elected a new pope. The papal conclave, which began on May 7, lasted two days before the decision was finalized. The sight of the smoke brought cheers from the thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square.
Shortly after the signal, the protodeacon of the College of Cardinals appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver the historic announcement: “Habemus Papam”, Latin for “We have a pope.” This declaration confirmed the Church had chosen its 267th leader.
Pope Leo XIV introduced to the world after White Smoke and historic 'Habemus Papam' announcement
Shortly after the white smoke, the protodeacon of the College of Cardinals emerged onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver the historic announcement. With the words "habemus papam," meaning "we have a pope," he confirmed the election and set the stage for the new pope's first public appearance.
Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a significant moment for the Church, as he prepares to lead the 1.4 billion members of the Catholic community. The new pope will now begin his journey as the spiritual leader of the global Church, assuming the responsibilities of guiding the faithful and addressing the pressing challenges faced by the Catholic community worldwide.
