White Smoke Rises: Catholic Church Elects New Pope

A new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church has begun. On Thursday afternoon, white smoke billowed from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, signaling that a new Pope has been elected.

This momentous development comes after the passing of Pope Francis last month at the age of 88. The papal conclave, now in its second day, has successfully chosen his successor—though the identity of the new pontiff has not yet been made public.

The white smoke, known as fumata bianca, appeared shortly after 1:00 p.m. Vatican time, indicating that a cardinal had received the required two-thirds majority vote among the 133 electors gathered inside the Sistine Chapel.

The faithful and observers from around the world gathered in St. Peter’s Square, many cheering and waving flags as they witnessed the smoke—centuries-old symbolism that a new spiritual leader for over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide has been chosen.

Excitement now centers on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where the Dean of the College of Cardinals will soon appear to announce the historic words:
“Habemus Papam” — We have a Pope.

Shortly after that, the new pope is expected to step forward and give his first public blessing, known as "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and to the world).

Though the name of the new pontiff has not yet been revealed, speculation has been swirling for weeks about leading contenders, particularly those known for advocating global reform, interfaith dialogue, and moral leadership in a rapidly evolving world.

This papal election marks a defining moment for the Church, which now looks to its new leader to guide it through doctrinal debates, geopolitical tensions, and spiritual renewal.