Cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel for a second day of voting Thursday, with black smoke again emerging from the chapel chimney, signaling a new pope has not yet been elected. The 133 cardinal electors have now voted multiple times without reaching the required two-thirds agreement on who should lead the Catholic Church.
Voting began Wednesday following preliminary discussions among the cardinals. Black smoke on the first evening indicated no candidate received enough votes to become the next pontiff, following the custom black smoke. The voting process calls for up to four ballots daily until a successor is chosen. A break for prayer is scheduled after three days if no pope is elected.
The Conclave process formally began with the cardinals entering the Sistine Chapel. Their task is to select a new leader for the world's 1.4 billion Catholics, succeeding Pope Francis. The ongoing Conclave draws attention from around the globe.
Outside the Vatican, people gathered in St. Peter's Square, watching the chimney for the awaited smoke signal. Sunlight illuminated the area as attendees waited for news from inside the chapel, discussing the process and their hopes for the future pontiff. The crowd represented a mix of ages and nationalities, united by interest in the historic event.
Pilgrim Ceci Triska described a sense of anticipation among onlookers despite the expectation of black smoke on the first night. Triska, who traveled with friends from Texas, expressed faith in the process. "We've been praying for the Holy Spirit to take over," she said. "Whatever God's will, it's going to be great." Patrizia Silveri, a Roman resident, highlighted the personal connection Romans feel to the papacy. "The pope is like family for the Roman citizens," Silveri stated.
Interest in the selection process extends beyond Rome. Students at Cardinal O'Hara High School in Springfield, Pennsylvania, watched the events unfold from their cafeteria. Student Gianna Goldberg noted the significance of witnessing history. "I think that it's really cool that we can be alive for all of this and see it all happen," Goldberg commented. Another student, Paul Lester, emphasized the role of prayer. "I'm praying every day that the Holy Spirit will direct these cardinals will pick whatever pope he desires," Lester said.
Father August Taglianetti, school minister at O'Hara, says students recognize the weight of the election. The school has emphasized the importance of the event and included prayers for the outcome. Interest in the Papal Conclave is high among young people, according to Father Dennis Gill of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Gill observed widespread fascination with the conclave, recognizing the pope's influence extends broadly.
The appearance of white smoke will signify a new pontiff has been chosen, followed by the traditional announcement, "Habemus Papa," meaning "We have a pope." Until then, the voting continues within the sealed environment of the Sistine Chapel, guided by rules aimed at ensuring a prayerful and deliberate selection.