In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney earlier today, signaling the election of a new pope.
After less than a day of voting, the 133 cardinals gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel chose Pope Leo XIV as the 266th successor to St. Peter.
The papal conclave, held on May 8, 2025, concluded with Pope Leo XIV’s election after the fourth ballot. The new pope’s selection was met with wild celebrations in St. Peter’s Square, where an estimated 15,000 people had gathered to witness this momentous occasion.
Here’s what’s next for Pope Leo XIV¹ ²:
- The Habemus Papam: The protodeacon of the College of Cardinals will announce the new pope’s election to the world with the traditional “Habemus Papam” declaration on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
- First Apostolic Blessing: Pope Leo XIV will appear on the balcony to give his first “Urbi et Orbi” blessing to the crowd in St. Peter’s Square and to all people.
- Inauguration Mass: Within days of his election, Pope Leo XIV will formally inaugurate his ministry as pope and Bishop of Rome during a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Key Facts About the Papacy
- Role of the Pope: The pope serves as the bishop of Rome and the visible head of the worldwide Catholic Church.
- Papal Infallibility: The pope is considered infallible when speaking ex cathedra, issuing a formal definition of faith or morals.
- History of the Papacy: The papacy is one of the most enduring institutions in the world, with a rich history dating back to the 1st century.