We Have a Pope! White Smoke Pours from the Chimney of the Sistine Chapel

White smoke signals the joyous news! Habemus Papem

By Deacon Keith Fournier
3/13/2013
Catholic Online (www.catholic.org)

On their fifth ballot the 115 Cardinal Electors who were gathered in deep prayer and reflection have participate in history. They have selected the Successor of the Apostle Peter, the Vicar or Representative of Jesus Christ.

VATICAN CITY (Catholic Online) - As the whole world watched the unmistakably white billows of smoke poured out of the Chimney of the Sistine Chapel. The huge throng of the faithful, gathered in a cold rain, began to cheer, weep, drop to their knees, wave papal flags and shout with joy -Habemus Papem! We Have a Pope!

On their fifth ballot the 115 Cardinal Electors who were gathered in deep prayer and reflection have participate in history. They have selected the Successor of the Apostle Peter, the Vicar or Representative of Jesus Christ.
Now, the whole world awaits the moment when this profoundly important leader steps out on the world's balcony and speaks to a Church which has been helped the selection with prayer and fasting. He will also speak to a waiting world which watches with extraordinary interest, as if they are somehow aware of the historic and spiritual significance of this moment.
Notice how everyone, believer or not, announces the good news - WE HAVE A POPE! May the Lord be praised and His people rejoice!

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Pope Benedict XVI's Prayer Intentions for January 2013
General Intention: The Faith of Christians. That in this Year of Faith Christians may deepen their knowledge of the mystery of Christ and witness joyfully to the gift of faith in him.
Missionary Intention: Middle Eastern Christians. That the Christian communities of the Middle East, often discriminated against, may receive from the Holy Spirit the strength of fidelity and perseverance.