"Everyone was screaming, running down the halls, ‘There’s white smoke, there’s white smoke!’” recalled Shelby Eichner.
Excitement erupted into celebration in schools across the region as students, fresh from studying the conclave process, rushed to witness the appearance of white smoke—signaling the election of Pope Leo XIV.
“Being able to watch it at school at Cathedral Prep was really cool,” said Cormac Thunell.
“I'm not Catholic,” added Jalil Thrower, “but I thought it was cool because it's history.”
As the news spread, students voiced hopes for the new papacy—calling for compassion, inclusion, and a revitalized faith.
“As a leader, I want him to be friendly and inclusive,” said Shelby Eichner, “but also help everyone feel welcome and feel that God is with us every day.”
Emma Varmer emphasized the need for change: “It’s really important, and hopefully he realizes there needs to be more women in the Church than just straight men.”
“More equality, more inclusivity, more understanding, kindness, and respect,” said Katelin Olinger. “We definitely need more of that.”
For many students, the moment wasn’t just about witnessing history—it was deeply personal.
