White Smoke Rises Over the Vatican, Revealing a New Pope.

This significant occasion came after several days of private discussions at the Vatican, where 133 cardinal-electors convened in a conclave to select the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The identity of the new pope remains confidential and will be revealed when he appears at the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to offer his inaugural public blessing. The Vatican News announced, 'White smoke! The 133 Cardinal electors gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel have elected the new Pope. He will soon appear at the central window of St. Peter’s Basilica.' This momentous event follows the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He passed away at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta after a lengthy illness. His funeral mass took place on Saturday, April 26, in St. Peter’s Square. After the service, Pope Francis was interred in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, fulfilling his personal wish to be buried outside the Vatican. The world eagerly anticipates the introduction of the new pope, as the faithful gather in St. Peter’s Square, united in hope and prayer. The upcoming announcement will signify the commencement of a new era for the Catholic Church.