Habemus Papam! The Catholic Church has a new leader

The white smoke has emanated from the Sistine Chapel, announcing to the world that the 133 cardinals gathered in conclave have reached an agreement and chosen to the new Pope, successor of Francisco, who died on April 21.

The bells of the Basilica of San Pedro have begun to repair, echoing this transcendental news worldwide. The Catholic Church has a new leader.

At the moment, the newly elected pontiff addresses the sacristy, also known as the «Hall of Tears», where he will dress with papal habits before making his first public appearance.

Thousands of faithful gathered in the Plaza de San Pedro await the first appearance of the new Pope from the central balcony of the Basilica. There, the Supreme Pontiff will give the solemn «Urbi et Orbi» blessing («to the city and the world»), a tradition reserved for the day of his choice, on Sunday of Resurrection and the Christmas party.

The White Fumata, unequivocal sign of the choice, became visible at 18:07 local time (16:07 GMT), marking a moment of deep significance for Catholics on the entire planet. The Vatican bells resonated immediately after, confirming the news.

Now, the Cardinal Elected will be formally interrogated by the cardinals about his acceptance of the Pontificate and must communicate the papal name he has chosen for his ministry. The world expects to know the identity of the new leader of the Catholic Church.