After the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, Robert Francis Prevost was chosen on Thursday as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, adopting the name Pope Leo XIV. His election marks a historic moment as he becomes the first American pope, challenging pre-conclave expectations that downplayed a US candidate.
As soon as white smoke was seen rising over the Italian capital, signaling the selection of a new pope, people began rushing through Rome’s streets toward St. Peter’s Square, according to a report by CNN.
Crowds were pouring in from every direction, shifting their focus from the Sistine Chapel chimney to the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where the new pontiff is about to appear.
First impressions matter. In 2013, Pope Francis emerged in modest white robes, rejecting the grandeur of past popes. He adopted the name “Francis” to honor St. Francis of Assisi, known for his humility and dedication to the poor. His first words to the public were a simple “Buona sera,” meaning “good evening.”
People from across the globe had assembled to witness the event since the conclave began on Wednesday. Leading candidates for the papacy included cardinals from Europe, Africa, and Asia, as per the CW report.
Donald Trump Reacts Following White Smoke
During the conclave, once a candidate secures and accepts the required two-thirds majority, 89 votes, he selects a papal name and proceeds to the “Room of Tears” to put on his papal robes.
United States President Donald Trump also took the stage shortly after white smoke began streaming out of the Vatican chimney, indicating that the college of cardinals had selected a new pope. “I saw the smoke, but I haven’t seen the pope,” Trump said in the White House East Room, as per the CNN report.
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