Thursday was a stunning day in the Vatican and outside in St. Peter’s Square as the Papal Conclave came to agreement on their choice for their next leader, 69-year-old native Chicagoan Cardinal Robert Prevost—now Pope Leo XIV.
The massive crowds outside the Sistine Chapel cheered as the white smoke wafted into the air, signifying that the vote was complete. But what happened in the moments after Robert Prevost became the most powerful man in the Catholic Church?
The Vatican posted unprecedented footage of the aftermath, and as you might guess, it was full of somber ceremony but also much joy:
Pope Leo XIV embraces each of the Cardinal electors just after he accepts his election to become the 267th Pope. pic.twitter.com/0cP28r7mam
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 8, 2025
The incredible behind-the-scenes video shows the new Pontiff hugging his…
