History was made at the Vatican as Cardinal Robert Prevost became the first American to be elected Pope, following the traditional conclave of cardinals at the Sistine Chapel. The decision was confirmed as white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Apostolic Palace — the age-old signal that a new pontiff has been chosen.
A wave of jubilation swept through the crowd of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square as they caught sight of the white smoke. Cheers erupted, with people — from nuns to pilgrims — celebrating the momentous occasion.
Soon after, a senior cardinal appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and, in keeping with Catholic tradition, announced in Latin: “Habemus Papam” — “We have a Pope” — before revealing the name of the new pontiff.
Pope Robert Prevost is expected to make his first public appearance shortly from the same balcony to greet the faithful, who are eagerly awaiting the historic unveiling.
The conclave that selected the new pope consisted of 133 cardinals from around the world and reached consensus surprisingly quickly — on just the second day of deliberations.
Pope Robert Prevost succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. His election marks a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church and a milestone in its centuries-old papal lineage.
