White smoke has risen above the Sistine Chapel, signaling the selection of a new pope by the cardinals on the second day of the conclave.
The identity of the new pontiff and the name he will take will be disclosed shortly.
After two days of deliberation, the cardinals have chosen a new leader, following a timeline similar to previous gatherings, indicating a strong candidate quickly gained support during the secretive process.
The 133 cardinals from 71 different nations, with diverse backgrounds, have selected a candidate who will unite them and address the crowds at St. Peter's Basilica.
Crowds below in St. Peter's Square eagerly await the announcement of the new pope. Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti will soon declare "Habemus Papam!" in Latin.
The new pope will deliver a brief speech and say a prayer before his formal coronation in the following days, continuing the tradition of past popes.
As celebrations begin, the new pope's name will be echoed in Catholic masses worldwide, especially in his home country. The jubilee year of 2025 will see Vatican-organized events and a busy schedule for the new pontiff.
Leading the Catholic Church in a changing world will require the new pope to make challenging decisions. The legacy of Pope Francis, focusing on the marginalized and needy, presents a path for the new pontiff to consider.
The new pope will navigate political and social issues, including the rights of migrants and global conflicts, while also addressing internal challenges such as the ongoing child sexual abuse scandal within the church.
Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking story...