New Pope Chosen With Plume of White Smoke From Vatican Roof

The Roman Catholic cardinals gathered at the Vatican in Rome have chosen a new pope to lead the church’s 1.4 billion faithful, announcing their decision with a swirl of white smoke from a smokestack above the Sistine Chapel at around 6:10 p.m. local time.

The identity of the new pontiff is due to be announced shortly from a balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square where crowds have been waiting. The 133 electors began their Conclave on Wednesday.