White smoke signals new pope: Inside the ritual of papal election
White smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel. For millions of faithful around the world, this means one thing: a new pope has been elected. But what exactly happens from this symbolic moment until the new Bishop of Rome steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica? The Italian media describe this highly ritualised sequence of events in detail.
White smoke, or fumata bianca, signals that the cardinal-electors have reached an agreement. In the case of the ongoing 2025 conclave, this means securing at least 89 votes out of 133 possible. The ballots are burned in a special stove in the Sistine Chapel, with added chemicals ensuring the correct colour of the smoke.
The appearance of the smoke is accompanied by the ringing of the bells of St. Peter's Basilica, dispelling any doubts. For those gathered in the Square and in front of screens, it's the signal that the Church has a new leader.
What happens immediately after the appearance of the white smoke?
After the announcement of the pope's election, a precisely arranged sequence of events begins, combining ritual, symbolism, and emotion.
1. Acceptance of the election and choice of name
The Dean of the College of Cardinals (currently Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re) asks the elect: "Acceptasne electionem de te canonice factam in Summum Pontificem?". If the answer is affirmative, a follow-up question is asked: "Quo nomine vis vocari?" – the new pope provides the name he intends to take. This choice often conveys an important message and refers to the values he intends to uphold.
2. Moving to the Room of Tears – a moment of personal breakthrough
The new pope proceeds to the so-called Stanza delle Lacrime – the Room of Tears, where appropriate garments await him, prepared by the Gammarelli tailor shop (in several sizes). The room is aptly named – many newly elected popes experience strong emotions there. He then proceeds to the Pauline Chapel for a moment of prayer and spiritual reflection.
3. The homage of the cardinals
Still in the Sistine Chapel, the cardinal-electors pay homage and obedience to the new pope. This gesture formalises his authority as the new head of the Catholic Church.
4. The announcement "Habemus Papam"
About 40–60 minutes after the white smoke, the cardinal protodeacon (currently Cardinal Renato Raffaele Martino) appears on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica – the so-called Loggia of Blessings. He announces the famous: "Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!", providing the name and surname of the new pope and the name he has chosen.
5. The first blessing Urbi et Orbi
A moment after the announcement, the new pope appears on the balcony and greets the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square. He gives the first blessing Urbi et Orbi ("To the City and to the World") and often delivers a short speech outlining the tone of his pontificate.
What next after "Habemus Papam"? Inauguration of the pontificate
A few days after the election, a solemn Mass is held at St. Peter's Square. The pope receives the pallium and the fisherman's ring – symbols of pastoral authority.
First meetings and decisions
The new pope meets with the cardinals, receives international delegations, and makes the first decisions regarding the governance of the Church. Italian media, including Avvenire, analyse the first words and gestures of the new pope, trying to predict what his pontificate will be like.
