VATICAN CITY – The first day of the papal conclave has ended without the election of a new pope. Black smoke rose from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday evening, signaling that no candidate received the necessary two-thirds majority to become the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
The conclave — a centuries-old tradition — brings together 133 cardinal-electors, the largest in the Church’s history. Of these, 108 were appointed by Pope Francis himself, reflecting his lasting influence on the Church’s direction. Ten cardinals are from the United States.
Before voting began, all cardinals took an oath of secrecy. Each day includes up to four rounds of voting — two in the morning and two in the evening. After every session, ballots are burned in a special stove inside the Sistine Chapel. The smoke emitted from the chapel’s chimney is a traditional signal:
Black smoke indicates no decision.
White smoke signifies that a new pope has been elected.
After Wednesday’s voting sessions concluded with no consensus, the cardinals retired for the night. Voting will resume Thursday morning as the world watches and waits for the symbolic white smoke.
Thousands of pilgrims and tourists have gathered in St. Peter’s Square, their eyes fixed on the small chimney that has historically announced momentous change for the global Catholic community. Millions more are following from around the world, hoping to witness the naming of a new spiritual leader.
This conclave comes at a pivotal time for the Church, as it faces growing challenges including secularism, internal reforms, and calls for renewed leadership. The wide regional diversity of the cardinal-electors and the historic scale of participation reflect the evolving face of Catholicism.
Notably, the last three popes were elected within a few days of the conclave’s start. With speculation swirling and prayers continuing, the next few votes could prove decisive.
Source : North Bulletin
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