VATICAN CITY – History unfolded in a dramatic and sacred spectacle on Thursday as white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that the College of Cardinals has elected the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church.
The conclave—a highly secretive and ancient rite—entered its third round of voting before the sacred plume rose above the Vatican, drawing cheers from thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square and captivating viewers across the globe.
Though the identity of the new Pontiff remains under wraps, the successful election indicates that at least two-thirds of the 133 cardinal electors, locked in the historic chapel since Wednesday, have reached consensus.
The gathering, cloaked in tradition and guarded by strict security measures—including jamming of mobile signals—commenced with the Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice Mass. Following the sacred liturgy, the cardinals processed into the Sistine Chapel, its doors solemnly sealed behind them, signifying the commencement of the conclave.
This year’s conclave reflected the Church’s diverse global makeup. While Europe retained its historical dominance—fielding 17 electors from Italy, five from Spain, and five from France—North America contributed 16 cardinals, including 10 from the United States. Africa sent 18, Asia 23, South America 17, Central America 4, and Oceania 4. Four electors hailed from Argentina, the homeland of the late Pope Francis.
The new pope will step into the shoes of Pope Francis, who died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His papacy, which began in 2013, was marked by bold reforms, an emphasis on humility, and tireless advocacy for the poor and marginalized.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis made history as the first Latin American and first Jesuit pope. Despite battling multiple health issues—including hypertension, pneumonia, and Type II diabetes—he remained active until the very end. Just a day before his passing, he made an emotional and unexpected appearance at Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Square.
His death was attributed to a massive stroke that led to a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. He passed away at his Vatican residence, Domus Sanctae Marthae, and was mourned across the world.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo, formally announced his passing. In line with his final wishes, Pope Francis was buried in a modest wooden coffin with the simple inscription “Franciscus” at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.
Tributes poured in from around the world, including heartfelt messages from world leaders such as President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, who described him as “a beacon of compassion and moral courage in a troubled world.”
Now, as the world awaits the public reveal of the new Pope, anticipation is at a fever pitch. The next chapter of Catholic history is about to be written, and over 1.3 billion faithful across the globe watch with hope and prayerful expectation.
PIONEER NEWS 