Habemus Papam: The Joyful Proclamation of a New Pope

On May 7, 2025, the College of Cardinals will once again gather in the Sistine Chapel for a solemn Papal Conclave. Their purpose will be to elect the successor to His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, with his funeral taking place on April 26, 2025. Once the outcome of this Papal Conclave is decided, the world will hear the stirring announcement made from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. This announcement — “Habemus Papam” — has resonated through the centuries, signaling a jubilant moment for the Roman Catholic Church, for Christendom, and for all who cherish the Church’s sacred traditions.

1. Origin and Significance of “Habemus Papam”

“Habemus Papam” is Latin for “We have a pope.” The entire pronouncement, made by the cardinal protodeacon overlooking St. Peter’s Square, proclaims the identity of the newly elected pontiff to the faithful and to the world. The fuller text is traditionally enunciated as follows:

Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum:

Habemus papam;

Eminentissimum ac reverendissimum Dominum, Dominum [prænomen] Sanctæ Romanæ Ecclesiæ Cardinalem [nomen],

qui sibi nomen imposuit [nomen pontificale].

Translated, it reads:

I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope! The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord, Don [given name], cardinal of the Holy Roman Church [surname], who has taken the name [papal name].

2. Biblical Inspiration

Underpinning this triumphant formula is a scriptural echo from the Gospel of St. Luke (Lk 2:10–12). These verses recount how an angel appeared to the shepherds, declaring: “Do not be afraid, for I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all: Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” Just as the angel’s announcement heralded a decisive moment of salvation in Christian history, so the cardinal protodeacon’s proclamation celebrates a joyous event — the beginning of a new papacy that will guide the Church in the footsteps of Christ.

3. Historical Development

The Church has always recognized the need to affirm its unity by proclaiming a single pontiff. However, it was after the tumult of the Western Schism (1378–1417) that “Habemus Papam” took on renewed significance.

• Western Schism’s Challenges: The Western Schism saw multiple claimants to the papal throne, including Antipope John XXIII, Antipope Benedict XIII, and Pope Gregory XII. The Council of Constance was ultimately convened to heal the fracture.
• Pope Martin V’s Election: The adoption of the modern announcement can be traced back to 1417, when Pope Martin V was elected at the conclusion of the Council of Constance. The council had previously deposed the rival claimants, and Gregory XII willingly abdicated, paving the way for a fresh, unifying papal election.
• A Unifying Cry: At that historic moment, the exclamation “Habemus Papam” underscored the relief and exhilaration felt by the Catholic world. It signaled the end of divided allegiances and a return to the harmonious governance of the Church by one successor of St. Peter.

4. The Ritual in St. Peter’s Basilica

The cardinal protodeacon stands on the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, which overlooks a sea of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square. This balcony has become an iconic setting where the faithful await not only the famed white smoke that rises from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney — symbolizing a successful papal election — but also the voice that will proclaim the joyful words.

• Role of the Cardinal Protodeacon: Traditionally, this role falls to the most senior cardinal deacon. He is entrusted with the privilege of announcing the new Roman Pontiff.
• Symbol of Continuity: By emerging onto the same balcony used for centuries in papal announcements, the Church reaffirms its continuity, heritage, and the unity of belief passed down through generations.

5. Renewed Resonance in 2025

Following the earthly departure of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, hearts across the global Catholic community were filled with grief. His funeral on April 26, 2025, drew congregants from all over the world, all paying their respects to a beloved shepherd of the Church.

• The Upcoming Conclave (May 7, 2025): Set to begin within the hallowed walls of the Sistine Chapel, this conclave will prayerfully discern and elect the new Vicar of Christ on Earth.
• Continuity of the Faith: When the new Pope is chosen, the Church will once again hear “Habemus Papam,” and an outpouring of joy and renewed Christian hope will uplift the hearts of the faithful.

6. Why “Habemus Papam” Matters

Steeped in tradition, “Habemus Papam” is far more than a simple declaration of a new pontiff’s name. It embodies:

• Unity of the Church: It reminds the faithful that the Catholic Church, in communion with the successor of St. Peter, stands as one family under God.
• Assurance of Apostolic Succession: The words proclaim the unbroken line that continues from the Apostle Peter to the present day, reinforcing the essence of the papacy as established by Christ Himself.
• Inspiration for Evangelization: Rooted in the Gospel of Luke, this revered formula encourages believers to evangelize joyfully, spread the faith, and bear witness to eternal truths.

7. A Deeply Christian Celebration

Within a strong pro-Christian perspective, the declaration “Habemus Papam” emphasizes gratitude for God’s providential hand in steering His Church. The entire Papal Conclave — its prayers, processions, silent discernment, and ultimate proclamation — reveals the sacred heritage the Church shares with all believers. From the cardinals’ whispered invocations to the roaring cheers in St. Peter’s Square at the final announcement, this ceremony glorifies Jesus Christ, who appointed St. Peter as “the rock” upon which He built His Church (Mt 16:18).

8. Looking Ahead

As May 7, 2025, nears, Catholics throughout the world will join in prayer for the guidance of the Holy Spirit upon the College of Cardinals. When the next Supreme Pontiff is revealed, the centuries-old cry of “Habemus Papam” will once again echo in praise of God’s goodness, summoning the faithful to celebrate the blessing of a new shepherd for the Roman Catholic Church.

In that moment, hearts will turn to St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square. From this holy vantage point, we witness the timeless beauty of a Church that, despite suffering loss, is always renewed. And in that renewal, Christ’s faithful people everywhere will unite in prayerful anticipation, hopeful that the new Pope’s ministry will guide souls on the path of holiness and love. Habemus Papam — indeed, a great joy to rejoice in.