In Video: 'We've got it!': Vatican crowd reacts to white smoke signaling new pope

The Moment of Truth: A New Pope is Chosen

As we stood in St. Peter’s Square, the energy was palpable. The crowd was electric, filled with anticipation and a hint of anxiety. The papal conclave had been going on for hours, and the world was waiting with bated breath for the result. And then, it happened. The white smoke billowed out of the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope.

As the news spread, the crowd erupted in cheers. Thousands of people who had gathered in St. Peter’s Square to witness this moment were overcome with emotion. There was applause, there were tears of joy, and even a sense of relief. For many, this was a moment they had been waiting for years, even decades.

The Context: Two Earlier Votes Fail to Yield a Result

The conclave had started with two earlier votes on the morning of the second day. Black smoke had billowed out of the chimney, indicating that no pope had been chosen. But the cardinals were not deterred. They had to meet again, cut off from the world, using no cell phones, and with no outside influence. They were determined to make a decision, and ultimately, they succeeded.

A Surprise Election?

For some, the choice of a new pope might have come as a surprise. There was no clear front runner going into the conclave, and many had speculated that it might take longer for a decision to be made. But despite the uncertainty, the cardinals had done their job quickly and efficiently.

Reactions and Analysis

"This is a dramatic, emotional moment here in Rome," said our correspondent on the ground. "You can hear the crowds, thousands who packed into St. Peter’s Square hoping to witness this very moment."

NBC News’ Thompson, who covers the Vatican, shared his thoughts on the election. "My first thought is that it follows the same pattern as we saw with the election of Pope Benedict the 16th and Pope Francis. Both elections happened on the second day… It’s a bit of a surprise given the fact that there was no clear front runner going into this conclave, but they have done their job."

The Wait Continues: The Identity of the New Pope Remains a Secret

As we watched the crowd’s reaction, it was clear that this was a moment to remember. But for many, it was just the beginning. The identity of the new pope remained a secret, and the world would have to wait another hour or so to find out. The Catholic Church had a new leader, but the details of his election were still shrouded in mystery.

Conclusion

As we reflect on this momentous occasion, it is clear that the world has been changed forever. The election of a new pope is a significant event, one that will have far-reaching implications for the Catholic Church and its followers. And as we wait with bated breath for the identity of the new pope to be revealed, we can only wonder what the future holds. One thing is certain, however: this is a moment that will be remembered for years to come.