The name of the new pope is expected to be revealed soon. After two days of seclusion, the cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel reached a consensus.
White smoke signifies that a new pope has been elected, while black smoke shows that the cardinals have not yet chosen a leader.
On Thursday, white smoke billowed from a chimney above the Sistine Chapel, indicating that the group had selected a new pope to guide the 1.4 billion Roman Catholics worldwide.
The cardinals arrived at their conclusion after being in conclave for just over 24 hours, which aligns with recent papal elections that have typically lasted between two to three days. The group of 133 cardinals, the largest ever assembled for a conclave, included many appointed by Francis and some who were unfamiliar with each other, making it a significant challenge to reach a quick consensus due to the diverse group of candidates and their differing views on the church’s future.
As the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out, crowds in St. Peter’s Square celebrated, signaling that the 133 cardinal electors had reached a two-thirds majority in selecting the new pope to succeed Pope Francis. Dominique Mamberti, the senior cardinal deacon, will soon announce the identity of the new pontiff, who will proclaim “Habemus Papam” from the balcony overlooking the square.
White smoke! The 133 Cardinal electors gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel have elected the new Pope. He will appear soon at the central window of St. Peter’s Basilica. pic.twitter.com/XejI7mY43m
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 8, 2025
Meanwhile, the new pope is preparing to adopt a papal name reflecting his intended leadership approach. After putting on a newly fitted white cassock and the ceremonial fisherman’s ring, he will process through the Hall of Benedictions and step out onto the Loggia of the Blessings to reveal his identity to the excited crowd and the millions watching worldwide.
The name of the new pontiff is still unknown but is anticipated to be disclosed shortly. A large audience in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City is getting ready for the new pope to appear on a balcony that overlooks the square.
This conclave, the first in 12 years, occurred during a tumultuous time for the church following Pope Francis’ passing in April. The new pope will face challenging decisions regarding the church’s future direction, especially between continuing Francis’ focus on greater inclusion and openness to change or charting a different course.