As anticipation mounts, the world awaits the unveiling of the new pontiff after white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a successor to Pope Francis. While the momentous event garners excitement, it will take approximately one hour before the elected cardinal officially announces the new pope’s identity from St. Peter’s Basilica.
Papal Transition: The Journey of a New Pope Begins
Papal Transition: The Journey of a New Pope Begins
A historical moment unfolds in the Vatican as white smoke signals the election of a new pope, but the public must patiently await the announcement of the pontiff's identity.
Cardinal Dominique Mamberti of France is in line to reveal the news, echoing the historic Latin proclamation, “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus papam,” which translates to, “I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope.” The designated cardinal, accompanied by Cardinal Mario Zenari from Italy should Mamberti ascend to the papacy, will share not only the name but also the chosen papal title of the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
As excitement builds outside, officials inside the Apostolic Palace begin the necessary procedures as outlined in a 1996 Vatican instruction. Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the master of papal liturgical celebrations, will ensure that proper documentation is presented, signifying the elected cardinal's acceptance of his role as the bishop of Rome and head of the College of Bishops. If the new pope is not already a bishop, ordination procedures will commence immediately.
Following the homage from the voting cardinals, the newly-elected pope will retreat to the Room of Tears—a symbolic space renowned for its emotional significance—where he will don the papal cassock for the first time. Various sizes of garments and shoes have been prepped in anticipation, as the physical stature of the new pope is unknown until this moment. The room’s name comes from the touching stories of previous popes experiencing overwhelming emotions as they embrace their new roles.
Only after donning the white vestments will the successor finally emerge to greet the eagerly awaiting crowds below, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church.
Elisabetta Povoledo reports from Rome, bringing insights into the Vatican's rich culture and the historic significance of the papal leadership.
As excitement builds outside, officials inside the Apostolic Palace begin the necessary procedures as outlined in a 1996 Vatican instruction. Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the master of papal liturgical celebrations, will ensure that proper documentation is presented, signifying the elected cardinal's acceptance of his role as the bishop of Rome and head of the College of Bishops. If the new pope is not already a bishop, ordination procedures will commence immediately.
Following the homage from the voting cardinals, the newly-elected pope will retreat to the Room of Tears—a symbolic space renowned for its emotional significance—where he will don the papal cassock for the first time. Various sizes of garments and shoes have been prepped in anticipation, as the physical stature of the new pope is unknown until this moment. The room’s name comes from the touching stories of previous popes experiencing overwhelming emotions as they embrace their new roles.
Only after donning the white vestments will the successor finally emerge to greet the eagerly awaiting crowds below, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church.
Elisabetta Povoledo reports from Rome, bringing insights into the Vatican's rich culture and the historic significance of the papal leadership.
