VATICAN: A wave of cheers, flag-waving, and emotional embraces erupted in the heart of the Vatican as the traditional white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel at 21:51 local time, signaling that the conclave of cardinals has successfully chosen the next leader of the Catholic Church.

In keeping with centuries-old tradition, the senior cardinal will soon step out to the balcony overlooking St Peter’s Square to proclaim “Habemus Papam” – Latin for “we have a Pope” – and introduce the newly elected pope by his chosen papal name.

Crowds gathered in anticipation under the night sky, united in faith and excitement, awaiting the moment the new pontiff will emerge and deliver his first blessing as the spiritual head of over a billion Catholics worldwide. Until then, the identity of the new pope remains a closely guarded secret.