VATICAN CITY – White smoke has billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the College of Cardinals has chosen a new pope on the second day of the conclave. The bells of St. Peter’s Basilica are now ringing in celebration, while the gathered crowd in St. Peter’s Square erupted into applause as the long-anticipated smoke began to pour skyward.
This marks the third consecutive time that a pope has been elected in the afternoon of the conclave’s second day. The previous two popes, Benedict XVI and Francis, were elected after four and five rounds of voting respectively. Early reports indicate that this new election was concluded after either the fourth or fifth ballot, though the precise count has not yet been confirmed.
The identity of the new pope remains under wraps for now. In keeping with centuries of tradition, the chosen cardinal will soon be asked by the senior cardinal elector two solemn questions: “Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?” and “By what name do you wish to be called?”
A pope’s chosen name often offers insight into the spiritual and pastoral direction he may take. Pope Francis, elected in 2013, chose his name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, a champion of the poor and a symbol of humility and reform. His predecessor, Benedict XVI, was inspired by Benedict XV, the pope who guided the Church through the turbulence of World War I.
As the world awaits the appearance of the new pontiff on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, millions around the globe are watching live. The moment he steps forward and speaks the words “Habemus Papam” – “We have a pope” – history will once again be made in the heart of the Vatican.
Stay with Prime Africa for live updates and full coverage as the name, face, and mission of the next pope are revealed.
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