New Pope Elected As Head Of The Catholic Church

White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel on May 8, signaling a new pope to head the Catholic Church. The conclave elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo XIV. The conclave lasted two days, and the 133 Catholic cardinals achieved a minimum  2/3 majority vote to elect the new Holy Father. As the white smoke filled the air, hundreds of Catholic Churches sounded bells in celebration. The chimes filled Vatican City as Catholics anxiously waited for the news. It was an emotional moment that included cheers and tears. The death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday left Catholics worldwide wondering who their new leader would be.

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Just six hours after the cardinals’ last vote ended with black smoke, the Vatican shared news of the new pope with a joyful message on X.

“Habemus Papam! We have a Pope! The Cardinals gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel have elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Pope, who took the name Pope Leo XIV.,” the message reads.

Many people shared their well-wishes for the Catholic Church and the new pope.

“Congratulations Pope Leo XIV! May Christ surround you with guidance and humility as you lead the people into his grace.,” a follower shared.

“What a time to be alive! Congratulations to him,” someone wrote.

Many agreed like this person who prayed, “Congratulations to Pope Robert Francis Prevost, the 267th Pope His election is well-deserved, reflecting his decades of humble service in Peru, commitment to the poor, and balanced leadership in the Vatican. As a Chicago-born polyglot, he bridges cultures, embodying Pope Francis’ vision of inclusivity while upholding tradition, making him an ideal shepherd for the global Church.”

This story’s featured image is by Tiziana FABI / AFP via Getty Images.