While millions of Catholics around the world continue to celebrate the election of a brand new pope, certain theologians reportedly fear that a 450-year-old prophecy is secretly looming over the religious festivities.
On 7 May, Rome’s College of Cardinals announced a swift conclusion to the latest conclave – which kicked off on Monday, and followed the passing of 88-year-old former leader Pope Francis on Easter Monday (21 April).
Although many spectators initially placed their bets on the likes of Pietro Parolin, Luis Antonio Tagle, Peter Erdö, Matteo Zuppi or Raymond Leo as Francis’ successor, American-born Cardinal Robert Prevost was announced as the election victor.