Key Points Summary: New Pope
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New Pope selected after dramatic conclave voting
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At least 89 of 133 cardinals voted for the winner
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Crowds erupt in St. Peterโs Square at white smoke sight
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Name to be revealed with traditional โHabemus papam!โ
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Cardinals struggled with several inconclusive ballots
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Front-runners included Cardinal Parolin and Pizzaballa
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New Pope expected to bless crowd soon after announcement
White smoke rose. Cheers filled St. Peterโs Square. The world now waits for the name of the new pope.
After tense and emotional voting, the cardinals have spoken. At least 89 out of 133 cardinals agreed. That was the magic number needed to elect the new pope.
Vatican tradition continued as the cameras zoomed in on the Sistine Chapel chimney. White smoke billowed, sending a clear message to millions worldwide.
New Pope to Be Revealed Soon
Soon, a senior cardinal will step forward. He will say the famous Latin words, โHabemus papam.โ Translation: โWe have a pope.โ
He will then reveal the popeโs birth name and chosen title. Moments later, the new pope will greet the public for the first time.
This long-awaited appearance will include his first blessing from the loggia of St. Peterโs Basilica.
Cardinals Faced Deadlock at First
Earlier, the conclave hit a snag. Black smoke poured out after Thursday morningโs votes. No candidate secured the needed two-thirds majority.
The rules are strict. Without 89 votes, no winner could be declared. Cardinals broke for lunch after the failed attempts. Tension grew.
Despite setbacks, optimism filled the air. Some believed a decision would come later in the day. They were right.
Eyes on the Chimney as World Waited
Crowds grew as excitement spread. School groups, pilgrims, and journalists gathered in St. Peterโs Square. They hoped to witness history.
Locals and tourists alike expressed joy and anticipation. โThe wait is marvelous,โ said Priscilla Parlante from Rome.
Many hoped for a leader like Pope Francis. Pedro Deget, a student from Argentina, shared his wishes. โFrancis opened the church, but more can be done,โ he said.
Speculation on Who Will Be New Pope
Not everyone agreed on the ideal candidate. Rev. Jan Dominik Bogataj, from Slovenia, backed Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa. He praised his clear thinking and respectfulness.
At the same time, Cardinal Pietro Parolin emerged as another favorite. The 70-year-old secretary of state held a powerful role. Some saw hints he had inside support.
During a Mass before the conclave, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re wished Parolin โdouble luck.โ Was it just polite? Or was it a sign of confidence?
Voting Process Follows Strict Tradition
The voting ritual is steeped in history. Cardinals write their choice on ballots with the words โEligo in summen pontificem.โ
Each ballot is read aloud, pierced, and bound together. These are then burned to produce the smoke signals.
Black means no decision. White means the world welcomes a new pope.
Slow Start in the First Ballot
The first vote happened late Wednesday. Black smoke rose after 9 p.m. That left many wondering. What delayed the result?
Some speculated about translation issues or procedural hiccups. But experts knew patience was key. Past conclaves needed anywhere from three to fourteen votes.
In 2013, Pope Francis won on the fifth ballot. History shows that quick decisions are rare.
New Pope Ushers in New Era
Now, the wait is nearly over. The new popeโs identity remains secret for just moments longer.
As tradition dictates, the announcement will soon echo across St. Peterโs Square. Millions will learn the name of the man chosen to lead the Catholic Church.
Excitement and emotion mix. The world stands ready to welcome the new pope and his vision for the future.