“One of the Best Days of My Life” — Alumna Experiences Election of Pope in St. Peter’s Square

"Habemus Papam!"

The shouts broke out as soon as the white smoke appeared from the chimney, visible to the massive crowd gathered to witness the papal conclave at ground zero in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City.

Among them was Sister Allison Zink, ’18, a member of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Sr. Zink is in Rome for eight months as part of her congregation’s international Juniorate for members of the order who are temporarily professed but who have not taken final vows. She is living with fellow juniors from across the globe who are studying theology. Sr. Zink is attending the Pontifical Lateran University.

Because of those studies, Sr. Zink and the other members of her community had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the election of Pope Leo XIV. They took a break from their studies to pray and be part of it.

“The first night, we weren't expecting to see white smoke, but a few of us went anyway to pray and be present with the Church as we waited for the new Pope,” she said. “The square was full, even on that first night.”

Sr. Zink said so many thoughts were running through her head during her time there.

“I kept thinking about the weight of this election and how important this is for our Church,” she said. “I prayed so much for the cardinals, for clear discernment and openness of heart.”

They came back the second day just in time — hearing shouts from the crowd before looking over to see white smoke, a sign from the conclave that a decision had been reached, and celebrating with those around them.

“The joy, the energy, and the sense of Church were so tangible. We were all squished together, but no one was complaining,” she said. “We embraced each person in our space, sharing a profound sense of joy, gratitude and disbelief that we were really there living this moment in-person. Easily one of the best days of my life!”