At 18:08 this evening, white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the 133 cardinal electors, after two days of prayer and deliberation under Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes, have elected Robert Francis Prevost of USA, now the 267th Bishop of Rome and leader of the global Catholic Church.
This moment follows the death of Pope Francis, whose papacy was defined by compassion, dialogue, and his tireless advocacy for the marginalised. As the Church mourns his passing, it now looks ahead with hope to a new chapter under Pope Leone XIV.
Just moments ago, the new pope stepped out onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the faithful and deliver his first Urbi et Orbi blessing, marking the official start of his pontificate.
More details and reactions to follow as the world welcomes the new Holy Father.
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