At 6:08 PM on May 8, 2025 (Rome time), white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling the successful election of the new Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. The event took place after two days of closed-door meetings among 133 cardinals during the papal conclave, convened to select a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88 due to respiratory illness and related complications.
Tens of thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupted with joy and emotion as they witnessed this historic moment. Church bells rang out from St. Peter’s Basilica and echoed across cathedrals from Barcelona to Madrid in celebration of the Church’s 267th pontiff.
Although the identity of the new Pope has not been officially announced, speculation is rife that the top candidates may include Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State under Pope Francis, known for his diplomatic experience but criticized for lacking pastoral charisma; Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, seen as the spiritual heir to Francis’s reformist legacy; or Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo of the Democratic Republic of Congo, a conservative voice advocating for greater global representation in the Church.
Following his election, the new Pope will change into papal vestments in the “Room of Tears” before making his first appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his initial blessing and announce the papal name he has chosen. This tradition dates back to 533 AD and is eagerly anticipated by Catholics around the world.
The election comes at a time when the Catholic Church is facing numerous challenges, including internal reforms, expanding the role of women, and addressing global social issues. With approximately 80% of the cardinals in the conclave appointed by Pope Francis, many expect the new Pope to continue the path of reform and inclusivity initiated by his predecessor.
The global Catholic community, comprising over 1.4 billion faithful, now looks to the Vatican in welcoming its new spiritual leader, who will guide the Church through a new era filled with both hope and challenges.
