Habemus Papam facts for kids
When a new Pope is chosen, a special announcement is made to the world. This announcement is called "Habemus Papam," which means "We have a Pope!" in Latin. It's a moment of great excitement for Catholics around the globe.
What is Habemus Papam?
The "Habemus Papam" announcement happens after a secret meeting of cardinals called a conclave. During this meeting, the cardinals vote to choose the next leader of the Catholic Church, who is known as the Pope. Once a new Pope is elected, the Senior Cardinal Deacon steps out onto a famous balcony. This balcony is located at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.
From this balcony, the cardinal shares the happy news. After the announcement, the new Pope appears to greet the people. He then gives his very first special blessing, called "Urbi et Orbi," to the large crowd gathered below.
The Announcement in Latin and English
The "Habemus Papam" announcement follows a specific format. It is always given in Latin, the traditional language of the Vatican.
Here is what the announcement says in Latin:
- Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum:
- Habemus Papam!
- Eminentissimum ac reverendissimum Dominum,
- Dominum [First Name],
- Sanctæ Romanæ Ecclesiæ Cardinalem [ Last name ],
- Qui sibi nomen imposuit [ Papal name ].
And here is what those words mean in English:
- I announce to you a great joy:
- We have a Pope!
- The most eminent and most reverend Lord,
- the Lord [First Name],
- Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church [ Last name ],
- Who takes to himself the name of [ Papal name ].
A Recent Example
On 19 April 2005, Jorge Cardinal Medina Estévez gave the "Habemus Papam" announcement. This was for the election of Pope Benedict XVI. Before the main Latin announcement, Cardinal Medina Estévez first greeted the crowd. He said "Dear Brothers and Sisters" in several languages. These languages included Italian, Spanish, French, German, and English.
See also
In Spanish: Habemus papam para niños
