White smoke has risen from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, accompanied by the ringing of bells — a clear signal that the cardinals have chosen a new pope.
White Smoke Above the Sistine Chapel
Shortly after the white smoke appeared, the Cardinal Protodeacon is expected to emerge onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and proclaim to the world: “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum – habemus papam” (“I announce to you a great joy – we have a pope”). He will then reveal the new pontiff’s name. Following this, the newly elected pope will appear on the balcony to greet the faithful for the first time.
Conclave 2025
This conclave, convened to elect the successor to Pope Francis, featured the highest number of cardinal electors in history — 133, representing 71 countries. Of these, 52 came from Europe, 16 from North America, four from Central America, 17 from South America, 23 from Asia, 17 from Africa, and four from Oceania. Approximately 80 percent of the electors were appointed by Pope Francis himself. A two-thirds majority — 89 votes — was required for a successful election.
The conclave was presided over by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the former Secretary of State of the Holy See, as the most senior cardinal-bishop eligible to vote by virtue of his nomination date.
Cardinal Robert Prevost – The New Pope
By the decision of the cardinals, Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the new pope. He received the required number of votes — a minimum of two-thirds.
Several minutes after the appearance of white smoke, the Cardinal Protodeacon stepped out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and announced to the world: “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum – habemus papam” (“I announce to you a great joy – we have a pope”), and revealed his name. Shortly afterward, the new pope appeared on the balcony and greeted the faithful for the first time.
The new Bishop of Rome then proceeded to the so-called “Room of Tears” — the sacristy of the Sistine Chapel — where he donned the white cassock and full papal vestments for the first time.