Cheers erupted across St. Peter’s Square today as plumes of white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope.

Thousands of faithful from around the globe surged forward, eyes fixed on the historic balcony as centuries-old tradition unfolded before them.

The atmosphere was electric. Pilgrims waved flags, embraced strangers, and burst into spontaneous prayer as the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out triumphantly.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said a couple from Greece, tears in their eyes as they awaited the appearance of the new pontiff. “We will stay here until we see him with our own eyes.”

Inside the conclave, the College of Cardinals had reached the necessary two-thirds majority to elect a new pope.

With the vote complete, the chosen cardinal was led into the “Room of Tears” beside the Sistine Chapel, where he donned the traditional white papal vestments for the first time.

The world now awaits the words that mark the beginning of a new papacy: “Habemus Papam” Latin for “We have a Pope.”

The senior cardinal will soon appear to announce the new pontiff’s name and introduce him to the world from the balcony above the square.

As the crowd waits with bated breath, the mood remains jubilant. History is being written in real time, and within the hour, the successor to Pope Francis will step forward to offer his first blessing as the 267th Bishop of Rome.

Stay with us for live updates as the Vatican prepares to unveil the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

END