What does ‘Habemus Papam’, the Latin expression to announce that there is a new Pope, mean?

The Latin expression Habemus Papam—which means “We have a Pope!”—is the official announcement that proclaims the election of a new pontiff in the Catholic Church. This declaration is made by the Cardinal Protodeacon from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, marking the beginning of the new papacy.

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Origin of the phrase

The Habemus Papam formula has its roots in the Council of Constance in 1417, when Pope Martin V was elected to end the Western Schism—a period during which multiple individuals claimed to be the legitimate Pope. Since then, the phrase has been used to officially declare the election of a new Pope.

Announcing the new Pope

Once a candidate receives the required majority in the conclave and accepts the position, white smoke is released from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that a new Pope has been chosen.Shortly afterward, the Cardinal Protodeacon delivers the traditional announcement:

“Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam! Eminentissimum ac reverendissimum Dominum, Dominum [first name], Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Cardinalem [last name], qui sibi nomen imposuit [papal name].”

In English, this means:

“I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope! The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord, Lord [first name], Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church [last name], who has taken the name [papal name].”

This announcement is followed by the new Pope’s first public appearance, during which he gives the Urbi et Orbi blessing from the same balcony.

Its meaning for Christianity

More than just a formal declaration, Habemus Papam symbolizes apostolic continuity and the unity of the Catholic Church. It is a joyful moment for the faithful, marking the beginning of a new era in the Church’s spiritual leadership.

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