Smoke Signals and a New Pope: The Electrifying Papal Election of Leo XIV
- *
Intense Drama Unfolds: Visible Smoke Signals Signify Papal Election Progress Visualized - Intense smoke emerges, escalating the situation dramatically.
Breaking news! The Vatican has a new Pontiff. The cardinals huddled within the sacred walls have chosen the American cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the latest Pope. Announced by the Protodeacon of the College of Cardinals, Dominique Mamberti, from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, the new Pope has selected the name Leo XIV.
Witness the scenes of elation on St. Peter's Square, captured in the gallery above.
More Snapshots from the Gallery
- Religious Elections
- Cardinals' Choices
- Vatican Moments
The Election of Pope Leo XIV
The Jester of the Catholic Church has been officially crowned. On May 8, 2025, around 7:30 p.m. local time in Rome, Pope Leo XIV— Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—was elected by his fellow cardinals. Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, to a multicultural family (French, Italian, and Spanish), this new Pope boasts degrees in mathematics, divinity, and canon law. His ascension to the Throne of Peter follows his impressive career, which includes teaching canon law in Peru.
Gathering in Rome following the demise of Pope Francis, the cardinals' procession led to the Sistine Chapel, where they cast their ballots in anticipation of a new spiritual leader. Smoke signals heralded the result, concluding with the announcement of Pope Leo XIV.
Comprehending the Conclave
For those eager to feast their eyes on these historic moments, you can explore the papal election and the first Mass of Pope Leo XIV through various media outlets and Vatican official channels. Examples include Vatican News, offering a video depicting the poignant events leading to his selection, and People.com, featuring images of the new Pope's inaugural Mass with cardinals present.
The European Parliament has expressed its congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on his election by the College of Cardinals. The Protodeacon, Dominique Mamberti, announced the new Pope's name from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, noting his multicultural background and impressive academic career in mathematics, divinity, and canon law. Spectators in St. Peter's Square were delighted, capturing the joyous moments on camera for eventual entertainment purposes. The sports enthusiasts among us can look forward to witnessing Pope Leo XIV's first Mass, broadcasted through various media outlets for our viewing pleasure.
