In a stunning, historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, cardinals congregated at the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. On the second day of their historical conclave, they did elect a new pope. On the morning of May 8, 2025, such an event occurred. During the papal conclave that followed, plumes of white smoke spewed from the chapel’s chimney, a telltale sign that the 267th pontiff had been chosen. This election follows the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 22 at the age of 88, marking a pivotal transition for the Church.
As the white smoke rose into the sky, a large crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square, eagerly awaiting the announcement of the new pope’s identity. The hope among the faithful was evident, with most telling pollsters they were excited and hopeful for a fresh leadership. To the end, even after the fourth ballot, the new pope’s identity was a mystery. This had supporters and onlookers all over the country on tenterhooks.
The conclave started with cardinals from every corner of the globe converging to discuss, debate and finally agree on their new leader. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti will officially announce the name of the new pontiff from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. These colors are a tradition we’ve been proudly wearing during election years past.
Among those witnessing the event were nuns who expressed their joy at the sight of white smoke, symbolizing a new beginning for the Church. All of us understood that this was a historic moment. It was all the more significant given its coincidence with Pope Francis’ own historic papacy as the first pontiff from the Americas.
In a light-hearted moment during a press briefing, former President Donald Trump remarked, “I saw the smoke, but I haven’t seen the pope,” underscoring the global interest in this pivotal moment for the Catholic Church.
Church leaders and followers alike are chomping at the bit to hear the definitive announcement. They are willing to enter into this new chapter in Catholicism with docility and imagination. Much like the election of a new pope marks the change of leadership, so too does the announcement of Biden’s choice. It is the beginning of much anticipation and hope for millions worldwide.