Black smoke again poured from the Sistine Chapel's chimney Thursday morning, signaling that the cardinals have not yet selected a new pope. The search for a successor to the late Pope Francis continues as the conclave enters its second day.
The global community awaits a new pope as black smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel chimney on Thursday morning, signaling that the cardinal electors have yet to achieve the two-thirds majority.
Following the completion of Wednesday’s opening ballot and Thursday’s morning vote, the 133 cardinals have conducted three ballots, yet a new pontiff has not been chosen. Two additional votes are set to take place on Thursday afternoon.
Following established conclave tradition, cardinals are set to cast their votes four times each day—twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon—until a candidate garners the required backing. If a pope is not elected after three days, the cardinals will pray and reflect before continuing the process.
The conclave commenced on Wednesday, with cardinals processing into the Sistine Chapel in a solemn ceremony to select the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church, which serves 1.4 billion followers, in the wake of Pope Francis's passing.
In the heart of Rome, throngs of people assembled in St. Peter’s Square, their eyes fixed on the chapel’s chimney, anticipating any indication of a significant development. Despite the expectation of black smoke on the inaugural day, the atmosphere among pilgrims and visitors was filled with reverent anticipation.
Ceci Triska, a pilgrim from Texas, reported that she and her companions were engaged in prayer, seeking spiritual guidance. “We have been seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit,” she stated. “Whatever the divine plan may be, it promises to be remarkable.”
Some individuals maintained aspirations firmly rooted in tradition and a sense of identity. “The pope is considered family by the Roman citizens,” stated Patrizia Silveri, a resident. The statement reflects a perspective that positions the pope as a central figure in their operations. She articulated her preference for a pope from Italy.
Mireia Mejias, a 20-year-old student from Spain, expressed her hope that the next pope will continue the legacy of Pope Francis and expand the Church's influence. “I hope the next pope will also serve as a leader for non-Catholics,” she stated. “The message of Christ transcends boundaries, and the Church must reflect this universality.”
As the conclave unfolds in secrecy, global attention remains fixed on the skies, anticipating the appearance of white smoke—the herald of a newly elected pope.
