Following the death of Pope Francis in April 2025, the world has been watching the Vatican for the next big announcement — who will be the new pope? And as always, the internet responded the only way it knows how: with memes.

From smoke-watching parties to fake papal candidates and jokes comparing the conclave to a reality show finale, New Pope memes have taken over social media. Whether you're here for the theological hot takes or just want to see the Vatican through meme-tinted glasses, you're in the right place.

New Pope memes: when the Vatican goes viral