New Pope Elected with White Smoke Signal
A new Pope has been elected after the fourth round of voting. Senior correspondent Benjamin Hall will share insights on what this means moving forward.
Catholics globally are expressing their joy over the election of the new Pope.
Robert Francis Prevast, now Pope Leo XIV, hails from Chicago, Illinois, and was elevated to Cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023.
On May 8, 2025, the College of Cardinals met for over 24 hours, conducting four votes before deciding on Pope Leo XIV, who will serve as the 267th successor to St. Peter and the new Bishop of Rome.
Cardinal Prevast is celebrated as the first American Pope, adopting the name Leo XIV.
The Pope Conclave is held in secrecy within the Sistine Chapel to avoid any outside influences.
The white smoke rising from the chimney of the papal residence signals to believers around the world that a new leader, or pastor of Christ, has been chosen.
In St. Peter’s Square, thousands awaited the announcement, both at the beginning and end of the voting.
The new Pope is seen as a champion of truth, faith, and love for the Catholic Church, which has persevered for over a century.
The atmosphere turned electric as white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel after the sacred voting process concluded.
The Swiss Guard stood vigilant outside the Vatican, amidst clergy and faithful waving flags from across the globe in celebration of the new Pope’s emergence.
In Trenova, Sicily, Anna Maria Militana noted expressions of blessings and prayers in Italian celebrating Pope Leo XIV’s election.
“God bless the Pope,” one phrase echoed. “Welcome, Holy Father,” was another sentiment shared.
With remarks such as “May the Holy Spirit lead you” and congratulations to the new Pope, the encumbrances of unity and hope rang out in the square.
“A new era for the Church is beginning,” resonated through the crowd, embodying the anticipation of many faithful.
As the celebrations continued, there were promises of support and faithfulness to guide the Pope in his new role.
