Although many people consider Cardinal Prevost to be a centrist at heart—someone who may heal the divisions within the Church—he is also considered as progressive on a number of social issues.
133 cardinals convened in secret to cast their votes on the second day of deliberations inside Vatican City, marking a momentous occasion. The new Pontiff had to be elected with a two-thirds majority, which meant 89 votes were needed.
The cardinals reacted swiftly this time.
As the renowned plume of white smoke poured from the chimney, the crowds waiting outside St. Peter’s Basilica yelled in excitement, indicating that the centuries-old rite had once again produced a new spiritual leader to head the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis passed away at 7:35 AM on April 21, 2025, at his home at Casa Santa Marta, which set off the conclave. He had been struggling with double pneumonia and related illnesses.
Five days later, on April 26, his funeral was held within St. Peter’s Basilica. Religious leaders, dignitaries from around the world, and hundreds of thousands of mourners attended the event, which attracted an incredible turnout.
