On Thursday, May 8, 2025, at precisely 6:09 PM (Italian time), the much-anticipated white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel's chimney, signaling the election of a new Pope, successor to Pope Francis. The momentous event was swiftly confirmed by the official @VaticanNews account on X, creating a wave of global anticipation. Although the identity of the new pontiff has yet to be announced, he is expected to make his first appearance on the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica shortly.
A Fresh Chapter for the Catholic Church
Following two rounds of inconclusive votes resulting in black smoke, the cardinals finally reached the necessary two-thirds majority this Thursday to elect a new spiritual leader for over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide. According to tradition, the chosen cardinal must first accept the election and decide on his papal name. The protodeacon then steps onto the balcony to deliver the historic "Habemus Papam" declaration before thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square.
The world awaits the revelation of the new pope's identity and his inaugural message. This announcement signifies the dawn of a new era for the Catholic Church, which faces significant contemporary challenges regarding human rights, migration, environmental issues, and internal credibility crises.
The Ritual of Papal Election: From White Smoke to "Habemus Papam"
When the white smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel, the world knows a new Pope has been chosen. Yet, this symbolic moment is preceded by a meticulously orchestrated protocol, steeped in centuries-old tradition and liturgy.
The Acceptance Rite
According to the Vatican's official site, once a cardinal secures the required two-thirds majority, the most senior cardinal by order and age—or the next in line if he is the elected one—approaches him and asks in Latin: “Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?”
If he agrees, a second question follows: “By what name do you wish to be called?” The Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations, alongside two ceremonial witnesses, drafts the official document of acceptance and the new Pope's chosen name.
The White Smoke and the Room of Tears
After the acceptance rite, the ballots and related documents are burned, producing the white smoke that announces the new Pontiff to the world. The new Pope then enters the "Room of Tears," where he dons the papal garments for the first time (three sizes are prepared) and spends a few moments in prayer.
First Ceremony and Blessing in the Sistine Chapel
Returning to the Sistine Chapel, a brief ceremony takes place: the senior cardinal bishop greets the new Pope, and the cardinal priest reads a passage from the Gospel, such as, “You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my Church.” The protodeacon offers a prayer for the new successor of Peter.
Subsequently, all cardinal electors approach in order of precedence to pledge obedience to the new Pontiff, and the Te Deum is sung in thanksgiving.
Prayer in the Pauline Chapel and Public Announcement
Before making his public appearance, the new Pope prays silently before the Blessed Sacrament in the Pauline Chapel. Finally, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti emerges onto the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica (the Loggia of Blessings) to announce: "Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!" (“I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope!”)
The new Pontiff then appears, delivers his first address to the world, and offers his inaugural apostolic blessing "Urbi et Orbi" — to the city and the world.
Understanding the Papal Election Process
What signifies the election of a new Pope?
The election of a new Pope is signified by the white smoke rising from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, indicating a successful vote by the cardinals.
What happens after a Pope is elected?
After a Pope is elected, he must accept the position, choose a papal name, and then the protodeacon announces "Habemus Papam" to the public. The new Pope appears on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to give his first blessing.
What is the "Room of Tears"?
The "Room of Tears" is a private chamber where the newly elected Pope first dons his papal vestments and spends a few moments in reflection and prayer.