Sistine Chapel Voting Process Continues
Roman Catholic cardinals returned to the Sistine Chapel on Thursday as the secretive election process for a new pope moved into its second day. After an unsuccessful first vote on Wednesday, they remained inside the Vatican under strict rules, aiming to choose the next leader of the Church’s 1.4 billion members.
No Pope Yet as Black Smoke Rises
The first round of voting ended without a decision, as shown by black smoke that rose from the chapel’s chimney. The smoke signals are a key part of this ancient ritual—black means no pope has been elected yet, while white confirms a successful choice.
Thursday Brings New Hope for Decision
According to Vatican plans, voting resumed at around 9 a.m. local time on Thursday. If one candidate gains enough support early, white smoke could rise by late morning. However, if no decision is made, more votes—and smoke signals—will follow in the afternoon or beyond.
More Votes Likely Before a Result
It is normal for the first vote to be indecisive, so Wednesday’s outcome was not surprising. History shows that many conclaves conclude by the second day, after multiple voting rounds. On Thursday alone, up to four rounds of voting were scheduled—two in the morning, two in the afternoon.
Most Diverse Conclave in Church History
A total of 133 cardinals from 70 nations are involved in this conclave, making it the most geographically diverse ever. The last conclave in 2013 had 115 cardinals from 48 countries. This increase reflects Pope Francis’ work to give more global representation in the Church.
Front-Runners and Possible Shifts
While no clear winner has appeared yet, some names are seen as strong contenders. These include Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who worked closely with Pope Francis, and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle. If neither gains a lead, attention may turn to other respected figures.
Other Likely Candidates
Other cardinals who may attract support include Jean-Marc Aveline of France, Peter Erdo from Hungary, American Robert Prevost, and Italy’s Pierbattista Pizzaballa. Voting may shift depending on language, region, or similar religious views among the electors.
Silence, Prayer, and Total Isolation
The cardinals are completely cut off from the outside world while the voting goes on. Phones and computers are taken away, and they are not allowed to talk about the process. They move only between the chapel and their Vatican housing for meals and rest.
Seeking a Leader for a Divided Church
Before entering the conclave, cardinals had expressed different views on what kind of pope they want next. While some want to continue Francis’ path of openness and reform, others prefer a return to traditional Church values. Many are hoping for someone more balanced and steady.
