The Journey to ‘We Have a Pope’: Vatican Conclave Explained

As white smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney and the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica ring out, the world receives the joyful news: Habemus Papam — We have a Pope! But what exactly unfolds behind the scenes before this historic announcement is made?

Inside the Sistine Chapel, under Michelangelo’s majestic frescoes, the cardinal electors follow the solemn procedures outlined in the Ordo Rituum Conclavis and the Apostolic Constitution Universi Dominici Gregis. Once a cardinal receives the required two-thirds majority vote, the senior cardinal present asks, in Latin, whether he accepts his election as the newSupreme Pontiff. Upon his consent, the cardinal is then asked, “By what name do you wish to be called?”

The Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations records the acceptance and the new name in an official document. This act marks the official end of the conclave, allowing key Vatican officials to meet the newly elected pope to discuss immediate matters.

Following this, the ballots are burned, producing the distinctive white smoke that signals the election. As the crowds in St. Peter’s Square erupt in joy, the new pontiff enters the “Room of Tears” to change into the papal vestments and spend a few moments in prayer.

The pope then returns to the chapel, where a brief ceremony takes place. A Gospel passage is read, a prayer is offered, and each cardinal elector approaches to express obedience to the new pope. The ceremony concludes with the Te Deum, a hymn of praise and thanksgiving.

Before stepping onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Loggia of the Blessings, the new pope pauses for silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament in the Pauline Chapel.

Then comes the long-awaited moment: Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti appears on the balcony and proclaims, “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!” (“I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope!”). The new Bishop of Rome then greets the faithful and offers his first Urbi et Orbi blessing — to the city and to the world.