The people's reaction to Pope Francis

(Vatican Radio) As the hours ticked away in St Peter’s Square crowds of people continued to fix their eyes on the chimney above the Sistine Chapel waiting for the smoke to appear. There were jubilant scenes when the white smoke was seen billowing from the smoke stack signalling the election of a new Pope.

As the crowds continued to swell the Proto Deacon came out onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to announce the name of the new Pope, Cardinal Bergolio, who took the name Pope Francis.

Among the throngs of people in the Square this choice of Pope was met with surprise but also joy.

Lydia O’Kane was in St Peter’s Square to get the reaction. Listen