White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel on May 8, signaling a new pope to head the Catholic Church. The conclave lasted two days, and the 133 Catholic cardinals achieved a minimum  2/3 majority vote to elect the new Holy Father. As the white smoke filled the air, hundreds of Catholic Churches sounded bells in celebration. The chimes filled Vatican City as Catholics anxiously waited for the news. It was an emotional moment that included cheers and tears. The death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday left Catholics worldwide wondering who their new leader would be. White smoke! The 133 Cardinal electors gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel have elected the new Pope. He will appear soon at the central window of St. Peter’s Basilica. pic.twitter.com/XejI7mY43m— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 8, 2025 The Vatican Shared The News Of The New Pope On Social Media Just six hours after the cardinals’ last vote ended with black smoke, the Vatican shared news of the new pope with a joyful message on X. “White smoke! The 133 Cardinal electors gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel have elected the new Pope. He will appear soon at the central window of St. Peter’s Basilica,” the message reads. Before the Vatican announced who the cardinals elected as the new pope, many people shared their well-wishes for the Catholic Church. “Finally, very good news for Catholics,” a follower shared. Many shared similar wishes. “May God bless the new Pope. May he lead the Faithful toward the path lit by Christ,” someone wrote. Many agreed like this person who prayed, “May His tenure be blessed and full of grace. Ensure that you never lose sight of why you’re trusted with leading the people into Christ’s arms.” This story’s featured image is by Tiziana FABI / AFP via Getty Images. The post New Pope Elected As Head Of The Catholic Church appeared first on InspireMore.