Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio from Argentina has been elected the new leader of the Catholic Church.
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The 76-year-old – now known as Pope Francis I — was the archbishop of Buenos Aires and was appointed by Pope John Paul II.
Bergoglio became the first pope from the Americas elected and the first from outside Europe in more than a millenium.
Cardinals overcame deep divisions to select Pope Francis I – the 266th pontiff — in a remarkably fast conclave.
Tens of thousands of people who braved cold rain to watch the smokestack atop the Sistine Chapel jumped in joy when white smoke poured out, many shouting “Habemus Papam!” or “We have a pope!” — as the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica and churches across Rome pealed.
Chants of `’Long live the pope!” rose from the throngs of faithful, many with tears in their eyes. Crowds went wild as the Vatican appeared on the square, blaring music, followed by Swiss Guards in silver helmets and full regalia. At least 50,000 people jammed into the square.
