After White Smoke Signals a New Pope, What Happens Next?

After the white smoke signals the election of a new pope, there is a brief waiting period before the pontiff’s identity is revealed. It typically takes about an hour for the chosen cardinal to appear on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and announce the new pope in Latin.

The cardinal will then reveal the identity of the new pope and the name he will take. Last time, Pope Francis appeared on the balcony about 10 minutes after his identity was announced.

(If Cardinal Mamberti is chosen as pope, the announcement will be made by Cardinal Zenari of Italy.)

Inside the Apostolic Palace, Archbishop Ravelli will certify the new pope’s acceptance of the role, as per Vatican rules. The cardinals will then pay homage to the pope before he is taken to the Room of Tears to don the papal vestments for the first time.

The pope’s garments and shoes come in various sizes to accommodate the new pontiff. The Room of Tears, named for the emotions it evokes in newly elected popes, is where the pope will prepare before making his first public appearance on the balcony.