New Pope Elected as White Smoke Rises from the Sistine Chapel
In Vatican City, the long-standing tradition of white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney has once again captured the attention of the world. This symbolic gesture indicates that the conclave of 133 Roman Catholic cardinals has successfully elected a new pope.
Although the identity of the newly elected pontiff remains undisclosed, the announcement is anticipated to be made shortly in Latin from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, a 73-year-old originally from Morocco, is expected to deliver this announcement—unless he himself is chosen as the new pope.
The excitement in Rome is palpable, with thousands of people gathering near the Via della Conciliazione, eager to witness the historic moment when the new pope is presented to the world. This event marks a significant occasion for the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, as they await their new leader’s first public appearance.
As the world waits, several rituals are being performed. Upon a successful vote, the elected pope is asked, “Do you accept your canonical election as supreme pontiff?” Once he consents, he is then asked to choose his papal name.
The cardinal electors then express their allegiance to the new pope, and gratitude is offered to God. The new pope is dressed in papal garments before the official Latin declaration, “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!” (“I bring you tidings of great joy: We have a pope!”) is made. Following this, the new pope bestows an apostolic blessing upon the gathered faithful.
This conclave decision required a two-thirds majority vote from the 133 cardinal electors, a process steeped in tradition and significance for the Catholic Church.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
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