Rome (CNN) -- Cardinals meeting in the Vatican have chosen a new pope to lead the world's 1.2 billion Catholics. White smoke rose from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel Wednesday afternoon, signaling the election.
Bells also rang just after 7 p.m. (2 p.m. ET), confirming that the 115 cardinals had chosen the next pontiff. The decision happened after the fifth ballot cast since the conclave began Tuesday.
Crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square cheered to welcome the election of a new pope to succeed Benedict XVI.
The new pope Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina , who took the name Francis will dress in his new robes, and could make his first appearance within the hour.
Seventy-seven votes were required to confirm a new pontiff to step into the shoes left empty by the historic resignation of Benedict XVI at the end of last month.
We all welcome our new Pope, Pope Francis. May the good Lord bless you and show you the right way to lead us., Amen
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