Francis looked stunned as he faced the cheering crowd. He asked for prayers for himself and for retired Pope Benedict, whose resignation paved the way for the conclave that chose the Argentinian today.
After announcing "Habemus Papum" -- or "We have a pope!" -- a cardinal on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica revealed the identity of the new pontiff, using his Latin name.
The crowd had braved cold, rainy weather to watch the smokestack atop the Sistine Chapel. They jumped for joy when white smoke poured from the chimney a few minutes past 7 p.m. Chants of "Long live the pope!" arose from the faithful, many with tears in their eyes.
Francis is the first pontiff from the Americas, and the first from outside Europe in more than a millennium.
Related Stories
- More Local News
- National News
- International News
- House approves Maine hospital debt repayment
- Maine gov. signs suicide prevention education bill
- House to debate Maine hospital debt repayment
- Northern Maine paper mill to get new owner
- NH's Shea-Porter introduces pipeline amendment
- Maine psychologist pleads guilty to fraud
- 2 lawsuits filed against Maine Catholic church
- State determines OOB employee retaliated against
- LePage: Eliminate Maine's income tax
- Central Maine Power sued by contractor for $43M
Pump Patrol Gas Card Giveaway
Enter for a chance to win a $100 Irving Oil Gift card!
No Text Zone
Help make our roads safe and you could win prizes!
WGME Top Stories
Newsmax Headlines
Business News
Consumer Info
BC-US--Dow Record-Three Personal Stories, 1st Ld-Writethru,1173
Dow Record: Three tales of ups, downs and changes
AP Photo FX102, FX103
Eds: With BC-US--Dow Record. Adds photos.
By SCOTT MAYEROWITZ
AP Business Writer
NEW YORK (AP) -- When the Dow first crossed 14,000, investors were overjoyed. ...
Entertainment News
"DANCING WITH THE STARS"
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Zendaya or Kellie Pickler will be winning the mirrorball trophy.
Get This
GW-GYM FLOOR
WASHINGTON (AP) -- George Washington University students will soon be walking all over the White House and the Capitol, too.
Science/Tech News
IN THE NEWS: iPHONE RECOVERED AFTER THEFT IN OREGON
MEDFORD, Ore. (AP) -- A smartphone, plus a not-so-smart criminal -- equals an arrest in Oregon.

