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New pope elected
New pope elected
By: Nii Ammui Fio | 2 mins read
A new Pope has been chosen by the 133 cardinal electors convened at the Vatican, concluding a closely watched papal conclave within the Sistine Chapel.
The world received confirmation of the election Thursday evening as white smoke emerged from the chapel's chimney — the traditional signal that a decision has been reached. The newly elected Pontiff is expected to make his first public appearance shortly from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Earlier on Wednesday, the first round of voting had ended in a deadlock, with black smoke indicating that no candidate had garnered the required majority.
Tens of thousands of faithful — approximately 45,000 people — braved the wait in St. Peter’s Square, hoping to witness the historic moment. Though the announcement was anticipated around 7 p.m., the white smoke did not appear until 9 p.m.
Among the crowd was Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania, who shared his thoughts with Vatican News.
“Our role here is to pray and to join with other Christians, other Catholics, to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the whole process,” he explained.
“Wherever the new Pope comes from,” he added, “whether it's Africa, Asia, America, what we need is we need a holy Pope. We need a Pope who will guide the Church and will be the pastor of the Church.”
The conclave follows the funeral of Pope Francis, held on Saturday, April 26, at St. Peter’s Basilica. The Church now enters a new era under the guidance of its freshly elected leader.
