Cardinal Robert Francis Declared New Pope
In a historic and unanimous decision, the cardinal electors have chosen Cardinal Robert Francis from the United States as the new pope. He will now be known as Pope Leo XIV. This marks a significant moment in the Catholic Church’s leadership.
Cardinal Francis currently serves as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and is the Archbishop-Bishop emeritus of Chiclayo. His election is a testament to his vast experience and respected standing among the cardinals.
Announcement at St. Peter’s Basilica
The senior elector among the cardinal deacons, French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, stepped onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. He proudly announced to the waiting crowd in the square, “Habemus Papam” – we have a pope. This phrase signals the official start of the new pope’s leadership.
Conclave Process and Voting
The 133 cardinal electors under 80 years old began the conclave on Wednesday. They were isolated completely to ensure secrecy as they selected the successor to the late Pope Francis. The process is steeped in tradition and ritual.
Each round of voting is marked by burning the ballots mixed with chemicals. Black smoke means no pope has been chosen yet, while white smoke signals the election of a new pontiff. The cardinals held an initial vote on Wednesday evening, which did not result in a decision.
More ballots were planned for Thursday afternoon, with the hopeful white smoke expected after 5:30 p.m. local time. The world watches in anticipation as the Catholic Church welcomes its new spiritual leader.