Sistine Chapel Erupts in White Smoke: A New Pope is Chosen in the Vatican (Video)

The election of a new pope following Pope Francis took place swiftly, with the announcement awaited by millions of Catholics worldwide.

On Thursday, white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, signaling that the 133 cardinals inside had successfully elected a new pope.

The decision was made on the second day of voting, but the identity of the new leader will be officially revealed from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica.

This moment prompted cheers from the crowd of pilgrims and visitors gathered in St Peter’s Square, celebrating the milestone that one of the cardinals secured the necessary two-thirds vote to become the next pontiff.

The ringing of St Peter’s Basilica bells further confirmed the conclusion of the conclave. The new pope was elected after four rounds of voting, though his name was not disclosed immediately.

In the past, such as when Jorge Bergoglio was chosen as Pope Francis in March 2013, the announcement came about 45 minutes after the white smoke appeared, as he stepped onto the balcony to greet the faithful.

There’s a new pope – white smoke emerges above the Sistine Chapel

Follow live as we wait to find out who has been chosen pic.twitter.com/wopWzFezA4

Further updates to follow…