Robert Francis Prevost has been named as the new Pope and will become Francis’ successor following two days of voting inside the Sistine Chapel.
The pontiff, who will be named Pope Leo 14th, is the 267th Pope, becoming the religious leader of Catholics across the globe and someone believed to be called to be the successor to St Peter, who was the first.
His name was announced after cardinal Mamberti uttered the words ‘Habemus papam!’ Latin for ‘We have a pope!’ from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The new Pope’s appointment into the role was revealed just after 5pm UK time on Thursday when white smoke was seen rising from the Sistine Chapel, confirming the news to the world.
Chants of ‘Abbiamo Papa, ole, ole,ole’ and ‘Viva il Papa’ could be heard from the thousands that had rushed towards the square and the flags of dozens of countries were being waved in front of stunningly sunlit St Peter’s Basilica.
Older cardinals who didn’t participate in the conclave rushed out to the square and lined up as military bands played the Italian and Holy See national anthems.
Spotted in the crowd were American Cardinals Sean O’Malley and Donald Wuerl, both of whom are over 80 and didn’t vote.
A marching brass band in blue uniforms led a contingent of Swiss guards through the crowd to a central spot below the balcony, generating another huge roar from the crowd.
The Pontifical Swiss Guard is the official security force of the Vatican, and holds a ceremonial and a protective function.
