White Smoke Signals Election of New Pope at Vatican

By Dominica Bernhard

On May 8, 2025, at 6:06 p.m. CET, white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signalling the successful election of a new pope during the 2025 papal conclave. This traditional signal indicates that the College of Cardinals has reached a two-thirds majority vote, electing the 267th successor to St. Peter.

The conclave, which began on May 7, 2025, convened 133 cardinal electors from around the world. After several rounds of voting, the decisive ballot occurred on the afternoon of May 8. The identity of the newly elected pope has not yet been publicly announced. Traditionally, the Cardinal Protodeacon will appear on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to proclaim "Habemus Papam" ("We have a pope") and reveal the new pontiff's chosen name.

Following the announcement, the new pope is expected to make his first public appearance and deliver the "Urbi et Orbi" blessing to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square and to viewers worldwide.

The election follows the passing of Pope Francis, and the new pope will assume the responsibilities of leading the Roman Catholic Church's 1.4 billion members globally. Further details, including the new pope's identity and chosen papal name, will be shared as they become available.

Dominica Bernhard is a freelance writer for Veritas Expositae.  You can reach her at dominica.bernhard@veritasexpositae.com