Black smoke was observed pouring out of the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, indicating that the 133 cardinals have yet to elect a new pope on the second day of voting. This follows an inconclusive ballot held on Wednesday, raising expectations for a decision today.
Amidst anticipation from the crowd in St. Peter’s Square, the morning smoke brought a mix of gasps and sighs from the gathered faithful as they understood that no candidate had garnered the necessary two-thirds majority. Pope Francis' passing last month initiated this conclave, the first in over ten years.
The chapel's deliberations resumed after a lunch break, with expectations for two more rounds of voting this afternoon. Historically, the voting process could be prolonged, with outcomes in previous conclaves varying from mere hours to several years. However, recent conclaves have concluded within two days.
The complexity of this election arises from the diverse assembly of cardinals, many appointed by Pope Francis himself, who may be encountering each other for the first time. These new faces could lead to more fragmented choices and challenge the decision-making process.
As excitement builds outside, public interest in the conclave has surged, evidenced by an increase in viewership for related media, including the release of the movie "Conclave," depicting the papal election process.
With no definitive timeline for the conclave, eyes remain on the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, as the expectation of white smoke for a new pope continues to drive the crowd's hopes.
