White smoke rises over Vatican as conclave elects new Pope

White smoke has emerged from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling the successful election of a new pope to lead the Catholic Church, following the conclusion of the conclave to choose a successor to Pope Francis.

The symbolic smoke—traditionally produced by burning the ballots with a chemical additive—means that one of the 133 cardinal-electors has secured the required majority of at least 89 votes, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

The moment sparked jubilant celebrations in St. Peter’s Square, where tens of thousands had gathered in anticipation.

The crowd erupted in cheers and applause as the plume of white smoke billowed into the sky above the Vatican. The great bells of St. Peter’s Basilica began tolling, confirming to the world that the Church’s new spiritual leader has been chosen. Below, a sea of faithful from around the world stood in awe, many in prayer. Priests made the sign of the cross, and nuns were seen weeping with emotion. Cries of “hallelujah” echoed across the square.

All eyes now turn to the red-draped central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, where the senior cardinal-deacon will soon emerge to deliver the long-awaited announcement: “Habemus Papam!” — Latin for “We have a pope!”

Following that declaration, the cardinal will read aloud the birth name of the newly elected pontiff in Latin and reveal the name he has chosen to assume as pope. The new pontiff will then make his first public appearance, stepping onto the balcony to impart his apostolic blessing, Urbi et Orbi – “To the city and to the world.”

Excitement continues to build in the square as the faithful await the announcement that will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.

By Vafa Guliyeva