[Update] Pope Francis, named himself after the legendary Catholic saint, Francis of Assisi. He's also the first pope from Jesuit order.
More on Saint Francis of Assisi here.
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| Pope Francis I |
Original post below-
After black smoke arose over the chimney on the Sistine Chapel multiple times, signaling no new pope had been chosen, finally watchers saw white smoke come out, and the bells of St. Peter's Basilica started ringing, meaning a new pope has been chosen.
Via ABC News:
A roar of cheers arose from the thousands of people awaiting the signal outside the Vatican.Post and headline updated.
The 115 cardinal electors began the conclave on Tuesday following the resignation of Benedict XVI, the first pontiff to resign in 600 years. At least a two-thirds majority -- 77 votes -- was required to elect the next pope.
French Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, the senior cardinal in the order of the deacons, is expected to step onto the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica shortly to announce, "Habemus Papam," Latin for "We have a pope."
Tauran will then reveal the pontiff's birth name and the name he has chosen for himself as pope.