The Catholic Church is in the process of electing a new pope following the death of Pope Francis. White smoke emerging from the Sistine Chapel signals the election of a new pontiff, while black smoke indicates that no decision has been reached. The conclave involves cardinals voting in secret, with a two-thirds majority needed to elect a new pope. The world awaits the announcement of the new pope's name and the beginning of his pontificate.
10 days ago
White smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel chimney signaled the election of the 267th successor to St. Peter 1 8 10. The announcement came just after 6 p.m. Rome time, prompting celebrations in St. Peter's Square 1 10. Bells tolled at the basilica as crowds waved flags and white handkerchiefs 1 10. The new Pope is expected to appear on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica shortly 1 10.
The College of Cardinals, comprising 133 members, met in a closed-door conclave following the death of Pope Francis on April 21 1 10. The Ordo Rituum Conclavis and the Apostolic Constitution Universi Dominici Gregis govern the election process 3. Ballots are burned after each voting session, with the smoke signaling the outcome 3 17.
White smoke (fumata bianca) indicates a successful election, while black smoke (fumata nera) signals no decision 3 17. The color of the smoke is achieved by adding specific materials to the burning ballots 3. The white smoke signals to the world that a new Pope has been chosen 3.
Thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square, eagerly awaiting the smoke signals 1 6 10 15 19. The Vatican provided a live feed of St. Peter's Square, allowing people worldwide to follow the event 17. The crowds included pilgrims, tourists, and members of the clergy 1 6 10 11 12 15 19. Some had traveled specifically for the conclave, while others were there by chance 12 19.
The new pope inherits a church facing numerous challenges, both internal and external 1 10. These include internal divisions, the ongoing synodality process, Vatican finances, and the clergy abuse crisis 1 10. Global issues such as wars in the Holy Land and Ukraine, migration, and the persecution of Christians also demand attention 1 10. The new Pope will also have to decide whether to continue Francis' Council of Cardinals 1 10.
Pilgrims in St. Peter's Square expressed diverse hopes for the new pope 11 12 19. Some hoped for a leader who would continue the work of Pope Francis, particularly his focus on inclusivity and care for the marginalized 11 13. Others sought a more traditional figure who could provide clarity in a confusing world 11 13. Many expressed trust in the Holy Spirit to guide the cardinals in their decision 11 13.
The election of a new Pope is signaled through white smoke, while black smoke indicates that no election has occurred. The smoke is produced by burning the ballots cast in the election by the College of Cardinals.