White Smoke Rises: New Pope Elected in Third Conclave Vote

VATICAN CITY – On Thursday, May 8, 2025, white smoke billowed from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope after three rounds of voting in a historic conclave. The 133 cardinal electors, gathered in secrecy since Wednesday, May 7, chose the 267th pontiff to lead the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, concluding a process marked by anticipation and global attention.

The conclave, the largest and most diverse in history, began following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at age 88. After an inconclusive first vote on Wednesday, marked by black smoke, and two more unsuccessful ballots Thursday morning, the third vote yielded the required two-thirds majority, or at least 89 votes, to elect the new pope.

Crowds in St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers as the white smoke appeared, followed by the ringing of St. Peter’s Basilica bells, confirming the election. “Habemus Papam” – “We have a pope” – was soon proclaimed from the basilica’s balcony, though the identity of the new pontiff remained undisclosed until his appearance before the faithful.

The conclave unfolded under Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, where cardinals, sequestered without phones or outside contact, followed centuries-old rituals. Each cardinal swore an oath of secrecy, casting ballots marked “Eligo in Summum Pontificem” (“I elect as supreme pontiff”). Ballots were burned after each session, with chemicals added to produce black smoke for no decision or white for a successful election, a tradition dating to the 19th century.

Speculation swirled about the new pope’s identity, with names like Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines cited as frontrunners. The conclave’s diversity, with electors from 70 countries, reflected Pope Francis’ global appointments, raising hopes for a pontiff from the Global South or even a first U.S. pope.

The election comes at a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, grappling with divisions over reform, financial strains, and past abuse scandals. The new pope inherits a complex legacy, balancing Francis’ progressive vision with calls for tradition.

As the world awaited the new pope’s first words from the balcony, pilgrims like Ceci Triska from Texas expressed hope: “We’ve been praying for the Holy Spirit to guide them. God’s will is going to be great.” The conclave, shrouded in secrecy, reaffirmed the Church’s enduring traditions while setting the stage for a new chapter.

Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, Vatican News, NPR, The Washington Post

17GEN4.com