Michael Portillo

'Long live the Pope' resounds in St Peter's Square

The inauguration Mass for Pope Francis is currently under way in St Peter's Square in Rome before tens of thousands of people, including 132 world leaders, marking the official start of his papacy.

Francis, who was elected by a conclave of cardinals last week to take over from Benedict XVI, took a tour of the square earlier this morning in an open-topped vehicle. Shouts of 'Long live...

Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina becomes Pope Francis I

David Cameron has welcomed the election Jorge Bergoglio, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, as the new Pope, saying it is a "momentous day" for Catholics around the world.

Cardinal Bergoglio, who will be known as Pope Francis I, was elected pontiff on the fifth ballot today (Wednesday 13 March) following the papal conclave in Rome.

Addressing the crowds, the first non-European...