For the second time in 24 hours, black smoke poured from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Thursday morning, confirming that the Vatican conclave of cardinals has not yet selected a new pope. The symbolic smoke, watched by millions around the world, signals an inconclusive vote in the sacred and secretive papal election process.
The solemn proceedings began after the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, a loss that has sent shockwaves through the global Catholic community. Since then, 133 cardinals have been locked in deep deliberation within the walls of the Apostolic Palace, tasked with the historic responsibility of choosing the 267th pontiff to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
As the black smoke continues to rise, so too does global anticipation. The world watches and waits, hoping for the moment when white smoke will finally appear — the traditional and universally recognized signal that a new pope has been chosen.
Related Articles:
- Cardinals celebrate Mass in the Vatican ahead conclave to elect new pope
- Pope Francis finally laid to rest at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
- Akpabio leads Nigeria’s delegation to Pope Francis’ funeral
Though some Vatican insiders speculate that the decision could come before the weekend, the conclave’s outcome remains uncertain. The weight of nearly 2,000 years of Church history hangs over the cardinals, who must reach a two-thirds majority before the new spiritual leader can be revealed to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square and to the world beyond.
With social media buzzing and news platforms closely monitoring each development, the Sistine Chapel chimney has once again become the focal point of global attention. The next puff of smoke could mark the beginning of a new papacy, and a new chapter for the Catholic Church.
