Expectant crowds at St. Peter's Square, just outside the Sistine Chapel, were jubiliant after white smoke issued from the chimney of the Chapel building, signifying the selection of a new Pope.

The identity of the new pontiff, having secured a majority of at least 89 votes from the 133 cardinal electors, will be announced later, when a top cardinal breaks the papal sequestration to utter the Latin phrase 'Habemus papam!', which translates to “We have a Pope!”

The new pope will then grace crowds with his presence at the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, where the announcement regarding his appointment was first announced.

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