Cardinal Robert F. Prevast Elected as New Pope
Vatican City – On Thursday, Cardinal Robert F. Prevast was elected as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church, marking the 267th session of the House of Representatives following a two-day conclave held in the Sistine Chapel.
Throughout the night, white smoke billowed from the iconic chimney, drawing a crowd of over 45,000 in St. Peter’s Square, with billions more tuning in worldwide once the announcement was made.
Bells echoed joyfully from St. Peter’s Cathedral in celebration of Easter Sunday, shortly before the announcement was made regarding the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88.
French cardinal Dominique Manberty, a deacon who participated in the conclave, formally declared the momentous news with the traditional Habemus Papam from the balcony of the Basilica:
Annuntio Vobis Gaudium Magnum; |I present you with great joy:
Habemus Papam:|We have a Pope:
Entinentisisimum AC reverendisimum dominum| Most famous and most pastoral Lord,
Dominum [first name] | Lord [first name]
Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Cardinalem [surname] | Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church [surname]
Qui Sibi Nomen Imposuit [papal name]. |Who held the name? [papal name].
Upon accepting his new role, Pope Prevast chose the name Petrin and retreated to a modest corner of the Sistine Chapel—the historical “chamber of tears”—to gather his thoughts for his new responsibilities. He then appeared before the eager crowd, offering blessings urbi et orbi (to the cities and the world).
The term “conclave” derives from Latin’s Climax (“with”) and Kravis (“key”).
The conclave officially commenced on Wednesday and is notable for being the largest in church history. Out of the 235 total members, 133 were eligible to vote, all under 80 at the time of the Pope’s death. The minimum required for election was a two-thirds majority of 89 votes.
“Extra omness,” “everyone.”
The doors of the Sistine Chapel approached this declaration, allowing only essential personnel inside.
With the exit of others, Cardinal Ranielo Cantalamessa gave a meditation, inviting the Cardinals into a space of prayer…
– Vatican News (@vaticannews) May 7, 2025
This conclave was marked by geographical diversity, with cardiac electors representing 71 countries from across six continents. Italy topped the list with 17 representatives, followed by the US with 10 and Brazil with 7. Interestingly, the European share of votes was less than half, while notable increases were seen from delegates in Asia and Africa.
Some first-time delegations included those from Bangladesh, Cape Verde, and El Salvador, among others. It’s reported that, despite some Cardinals not having met prior, a general congregation meeting allowed for introductions and discussions on pertinent church issues.
Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, informed reporters that 179 Cardinals, including 132 electors, were present for the General gathering on Monday.
– Vatican News (@vaticannews) May 5, 2025
The newly elected Pope now leads a global community of 1.39 billion Catholics and faces the task of addressing an increasingly secular world, ongoing issues regarding clergy misconduct, and various global conflicts.
