Vatican City Witnesses Joyful Scene After New Pope's Election: White Smoke Emerges Signaling the Conclave's Decision in St. Peter's Square
In a jiffy, the Pope's game changed! A puff of smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney on May 8, around 6 pm marked the conclusion of the conclave and the selection of a brand-new Pope. The crowds on St. Peter's Square in Rome erupted into thunderous cheers and joyous cries, movie-style reactions captured by numerous smartphones. The bells of St. Peter's Basilica and other Roman churches resounded in a triumphant symphony.
Up Close and Live: Pope Leo XIV's Coronation at the Vatican
Within the hour, the new head honcho was officially outed. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the guy in charge, hoisted himself onto St. Peter's Basilica balcony, declaring with great fanfare, "Habemus papam!" which translated to "We have a pope!" Our freshly minted Pope Leo XIV had parted ways with his old name, Robert Francis Prevost, to claim his new title.
Born and bred in the windswept streets of Chicago, Prevost gained quite the impressive portfolio. He reigned as the head honcho of the Dicastery for Bishops since 2023, acting as the global bishop appointing kingpin. His resume isn't limited to the Vatican; he also spent his fair share of time as a Peruvian missionary and served as the emeritus archbishop of Chiclayo in that beautiful South American nation. On top of that, Prevost held the esteemed position of president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Pope Leo XIV's selection signifies a milestone for both the Catholic Church and the United States, as he ushers in a new era of leadership, balancing tradition with innovative perspectives. Born American, this Pope hails from Chicago, earning a significant achievement as the inaugural papal pick from the U.S.
His term is off to a flying start, with his inaugural words as Pope echoing the wish for world peace spoken from the central loggia of Saint Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. It seems like we're looking at a historic chapter unfolding before our very eyes!
- On Thursday, the newly chosen Pope, Leo XIV, was greeted by the general public in Rome, following his selection during the conclave.
- The Pope, born as Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, boasts an extensive career with roles in the Vatican, Peru, and Chiclayo, earning him the esteemed position of president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
- Prevost's election as Pope signifies a historic milestone for the Catholic Church and the United States, as he is the first American Pope.
- In his inaugural speech, Pope Leo XIV expressed his hopes for world peace, marking a fresh era of leadership that blends tradition with innovative perspectives.
