A metro Atlanta couple witnessed the historic election of the first American pope Thursday.

During their honeymoon trip in Italy, Chase Adams and Sandra Padilla heard news of white smoke pouring from the Sistine Chapel chimney — a signal of a new pope being elected to lead the Catholic Church.

“I think it was something pretty spectacular. I mean, I keep using the word serendipity,” Adams said. “It’s a very awe-inspiring experience to witness in person