The Vatican became the centre of world attention again – after the fourth vote, white smoke rose over the Sistine Chapel. This is an infallible sign: we have a new pope! The moment millions of believers were waiting for just happened.
How is the Pope elected? – Key stages of the conclave
The election of the new Pope is a centuries-old tradition and a precise procedure. In 2025, the conclave began on 7 May, with the participation of a record number of 133 electors cardinals. The first vote did not bring a decision – black smoke came out of the chimney, which meant that no one obtained the required majority.
Four votes a day are held in the following days: two in the morning and two in the afternoon. After each of them, election cards are burned – if the Pope is elected, white smoke appears; if not, black smoke is visible.
Smoke Symbol
- White smoke (foumata bianca)– announces to the world the election of a new pope.
- Black smoke (nerium fumarate)– means that the decision has not yet been made.
To obtain a white colour, special chemical mixtures such as potassium chlorate, lactose and pine resin are added to the card burning.
"Habemus Papam!" – what does this moment mean?
The famous formula "Habemus Papam" ("We have Pope") is a traditional Latin ad that falls from the mouth of the cardinal protodeacon from the balcony of St Peter's Basilica. After these words, the newly elected Pope goes out to the faithful and gives the first blessing "Urbi et Orbi" – "Cities and the World".
This event is compared to the final of world sports competitions – emotions, expectations and joy unite people regardless of nationality or language.
Who chooses the Pope and what are the requirements?
The Pope is elected by cardinal electors – this year as many as 133 clergymen from all over the world, including four Poles. To become Pope, a candidate must obtain at least two thirds of the vote (in 2025 – 89).
The most popular favourites are cardinals with great experience and confidence among electors. This conclave listed Cardinal Pietro Parolin or Cardinal Matteo Zuppie as potential successors to St Peter.
Why is this choice so important?
The new Pope is not only the head of the Catholic Church, but also the moral and spiritual authority for over a billion believers worldwide. His decisions and messages affect not only religion, but also world politics, intercultural dialogue and charitable activities.
The election of 267th Pope is the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Church – and the moment that will long be recorded in the memory of the faithful and observers around the world.
White smoke, "Habemus Papam" and the first blessing – are moments that unite people beyond divisions. We're witnessing them now.
