When Fr Olivier Noclam SVD farewelled his parish in Santa Teresa, Central Australia for his new assignment in Rome early this year, he did not realise he would soon be watching first-hand as the white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, announcing the election of a new pope.
Fr Ollie, who comes from Vanuatu and is now assigned to the SVD Generalate in Rome, said the opportunity to farewell Pope Francis and welcome Pope Leo XIV along with thousands of other people from all over the world was something he will always remember.
After Pope Francis died on Easter Monday and his body was laid in repose in St Peter’s Basilica, Fr Ollie lined up with the crowds to file past the open coffin bearing the late pontiff for one last prayer and tribute of thanks.
A couple of weeks later, realising that these were historic days, he made his way to St Peter’s Square to be near the Sistine Chapel where the cardinals were electing a new pope. He saw two lots of black smoke rise from the famous chimney, before the white smoke indicating a new pope rose up.
“I was truly fortunate to be in Rome at St Peter's Square during the election of Pope Leo XIV,” he said.
“Witnessing such a historic and spiritual event was an experience I will never forget.
“As the black smoke rose, followed by the white smoke, I felt a sense of anticipation and excitement that words cannot fully describe.”
Fr Ollie said that when the announcement of "Habemus Papam" (We have a Pope) was made, and the new Pope appeared for the first time on the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, he was overwhelmed with pride.
“Something I often see on TV, I was now witnessing with my own eyes,” he said.
“Seeing Pope Leo bless the crowd and knowing I was part of that moment made me feel deeply connected to my faith and my community back home.
“Being a Catholic in that moment was incredibly powerful. The Church’s universal, respectful, peaceful, diverse, and energetic nature was evident in the thousands of people gathered from all over the world, including many energetic Pacific Islanders.
“Despite the ancient history of the Church, it still felt young and vibrant.”
Fr Ollie said that for him, the experience truly symbolised the unity and strength of the Catholic faith worldwide.
“I am proud to serve and be part of this global community, especially as a Ni-Vanuatu,” he said.
“This once-in-a-lifetime event has strengthened my faith and sense of purpose. Watching the procession, the election, and witnessing the Pope’s first blessing gave me hope and a renewed belief in the power of faith and unity.
“I will forever cherish this moment and as I reflect on this experience, I am grateful for the opportunity to witness such a sacred event and to be part of the worldwide Church. I will carry this unforgettable memory with me, inspiring me to continue serving God with pride and devotion.”
PHOTOS
TOP RIGHT: Fr Ollie waits in the crowds at St Peter's Square for the white smoke to rise, signifiying the election of a new pope.
MIDDLE LEFT: Pope Leo XIV makes his first appearance as pontiff on the loggia of St Peter's Basilica. (Edgar Beltrán / The Pillar, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons)
BOTTOM RIGHT: Fr Ollie with the Vanuatu flag as the crowds begin to disperse.