The Papal conclave entered its second day on Thursday with no resolution, as black smoke poured from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, indicating that the 133 cardinals have yet to elect a successor to the late Pope Francis.
The conclave, which began on Wednesday, is convened to select a new pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
Cardinals are casting ballots in the Sistine Chapel, with each vote requiring a two-thirds majority to elect a new pontiff. The black smoke signifies that no candidate has achieved the necessary majority.
The conclave is notable for its diversity, with cardinals from 70 countries participating. Speculation has centered on Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle as potential frontrunners. However, no consensus has emerged thus far.
The cardinals will continue to vote up to four times daily until a new pope is elected. The next round of voting is scheduled for later in the day on Thursday .
Observers and faithful in St. Peter’s Square await further developments.
As the conclave progresses, the world watches closely for the white smoke that will signal the election of a new pope. Until then, the black smoke serves as a reminder of the ongoing deliberations within the hallowed walls of the Sistine Chapel.
