In brief
As the votings proceed, black smoke billowed from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel on Thursday morning, signaling that the cardinals convened to select a new pope have yet to reach a consensus. This marks a continued delay in the selection process that follows the death of Pope Francis last month, prompting the first conclave in over ten years. The highly anticipated moment when white smoke would emerge, indicating a decision, remains elusive as the cardinals reconvene for a second round of voting this afternoon.
The crowds in St. Peter's Square reacted with disappointment at the news, their hopes temporarily dashed as they await the results of the next series of votes. Voting in secrecy, the 133 cardinals are aware of the historical significance of this conclave, which comes amid a backdrop of division within the church, with progressive voices calling for reform and conservatives advocating a return to traditional values. Experts suggest the diverse group of cardinals may make the selection process more complex than in previous conclaves.Here's what we've learned:- The voting process: Following a mass, the cardinals will vote four times daily until one candidate achieves a two-thirds majority. The process includes rigorous measures to maintain secrecy, such as the use of a ballot that is uniquely prepared and a method to signal the outcome through smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney.- Historical context: Notably, this conclave faces pressures to reach a decision quickly, as recent papal elections—for both Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI—were completed within two days. However, historical records illustrate that some conclaves have lasted far longer, with the longest spanning nearly three years in the 13th century.- Conclave dynamic: This conclave is marked by the largest assembly of cardinals, many of whom are meeting for the first time, and the ideological differences may complicate the voting process as factions seek to assert their priorities for the church's future direction.As the wait continues, faith and hope resonate among the faithful gathered outside, who retain their optimism that a new leader will emerge to guide the Catholic Church through its current challenges. As the cardinals prepare for another round of voting this afternoon, the world watches closely, awaiting a new pope's arrival and the accompanying white smoke that would signal a conclusion to the selection process.May 8, 2025, 8:22 a.m. ET
