Witnessing history: Covering the 2025 papal conclave in Rome
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in 500 years, delivers his first Regina Caeli prayer from St. Peter’s Basilica, addressing thousands of pilgrims and spectators gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Photo by Elton Lugay
ROME – Witnessing history at the 2025 papal conclave in Rome was a dream come true.
As a journalist passionate about culture and faith, I felt blessed to cover this extraordinary event – an experience I will cherish forever.
Arriving in Rome, I was eager to immerse myself in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Without over-preparing or second-guessing, I seized the moment, determined to experience as much as possible during my brief stay.
My first days were a whirlwind of iconic landmarks, thanks to Ella Cerin, owner of Dolce Via Tours. She guided me through the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore – the final resting place of the late Pope Francis. These landmarks, steeped in centuries of tradition, left me in awe.
Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, where the late Pope Francis’ body was laid to rest. He died at 88 from a stroke and heart failure on April 21, with over 250,000 attending his funeral. Photo by Elton Lugay
Taking a breather at Collegio Filippino after an inspiring interview with Rector Fr. Greg Gaston and my host, Ella Cerin. Fr. Greg reminds us that the Church’s strength is rooted in compassion, adaptability and unwavering faith.
The city was still mourning Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at age 88 after a stroke and heart failure. His legacy of compassion and reform was on everyone’s mind as the world awaited his successor.
On May 8, white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope. The reaction in St. Peter’s Square was profound – a blend of anticipation and hope. People gathered in silent reverence, waiting for the official announcement.
View of St. Peter’s Square from the Holy See press center as thousands gather, eagerly awaiting the new pope’s first public appearance. Photo by Elton Lugay
When Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was introduced as Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, a wave of mixed emotions swept through the crowd.
As a Filipino, I quietly hoped for Cardinal Tagle’s election. When his name was not called, I took it as a sign of acceptance – that perhaps it was not yet his time, and that God’s will was at play.
Conversations with Filipinos in Rome and visitors from around the world reflected similar sentiments: disappointment, yet a collective embrace of the new leader.
Celebrating after praying and seeing the new pope with new media friends from the US, who also came for the conclave – Alex Baquilod from Washington, D.C., and Nina Santos Laubach from New Jersey.
Throughout the week, I made the most of my limited time, prioritizing meaningful sites. Rome’s beauty is best appreciated in snippets, especially when lines are long and the sun is high.
I visited Ostia Antica, the ancient Roman port city, and made a special trip to the Pontificio Collegio Filippino, where Cardinal Tagle resides, and met with Rector Fr. Greg Gaston.
Ostia Antica, Rome’s ancient port, is a vast archaeological site 25 km southwest of Rome. Once a thriving seaport, it’s now open to visitors as an archaeological park. Photo by Elton Lugay
My last day in Rome was filled with gratitude. I returned to St. Peter’s Basilica for the Regina Caeli prayer with Pope Leo – an experience both humbling and inspiring.
The basilica’s soaring ceilings, intricate mosaics and the tomb of St. Peter left a lasting impression. It’s a place where faith and history converge, and witnessing the pope’s blessing was a moment I will always treasure.
Inside St. Peter’s Basilica, large marble columns and arches surround a spacious area filled with detailed artwork and natural light from the dome. Photo by Elton Lugay
Back at my Airbnb, Luis and Marcella welcomed me like family. Their warmth and hospitality turned a simple stay into a comforting home away from home.
Luis’s homemade lasagna and couscous with vegetables were delicious reminders of the simple joys of travel, even amid the whirlwind of events and new faces.
Couscous by Chef Luis, an Italian chef with 35 years of experience.
The weather was sunny and the air refreshingly clear – a blessing for someone navigating unfamiliar territory alone for the first time.
With safety in mind, I opted for a car service instead of public transport, allowing me to focus on the experience and enjoy the city’s sights at my own pace.
Reflecting on this journey, I feel incredibly fortunate to have witnessed such a historic moment in the Catholic Church.
Covering the conclave, seeing the new pope for the first time and experiencing Rome’s timeless beauty was a truly blessed experience – one I will carry with me for a lifetime.
