The first day of the conclave concluded without a new pope being elected, as indicated by black smoke from the Sistine Chapel. Cardinals participated in the initial vote, but no candidate secured the necessary two-thirds majority. The voting process involved 133 cardinals, the largest number ever to vote in a conclave. The cardinals will reconvene to continue voting, while thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square to await the outcome.
about 2 months ago
The College of Cardinals failed to elect a new pope on the first ballot during the 2025 conclave 3 5. Black smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel chimney at approximately 9 p.m. Rome time on May 7, signaling the lack of a decision 2 5. This outcome was widely anticipated, as it is rare for a pope to be elected on the first ballot 2 8. The 133 cardinal-electors will reconvene on May 8 to continue the voting process 8.
Black smoke serves as the traditional indicator that the cardinals have not reached the required two-thirds majority to elect a new pope 5. To be elected, a candidate must receive at least 89 votes 2 8. The black smoke signals that no decision has been reached, informing the public and the faithful that the selection process continues 5. Ballots are burned after each vote, with colored smoke indicating the outcome 2.
The conclave began with the cardinals processing into the Sistine Chapel after celebrating Mass and taking a solemn oath of secrecy 3 6 7. Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the master of papal ceremonies, declared "extra omnes" ("everyone out"), sealing the doors and initiating the voting process 2 6. Cardinal electors will cast up to four ballots each day 3 7 8. If no pope is elected after three days of voting, the cardinals may take a day for prayer and informal discussion 3 7.
Despite the expectation of black smoke, thousands of pilgrims, tourists, and faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square 1 2 3. Many attendees waved flags from their home countries, including the Philippines, Brazil, the United States, and Nicaragua 3 7. Some individuals extended their trips to Rome to witness the historic event 3 7. While some expressed curiosity about the next pope's potential focus on young adults 3 7, others viewed the conclave as a moment of unity and hope for the Catholic Church 3 7.
What is the theological understanding of papal succession?
The fact that a conclave fails to elect a Pope on the first ballot is not unusual, given the process and requirements for electing a new Pope.
Here's a breakdown of the Papal election process:
Given these requirements and the complexities of the process, it is not surprising that the Cardinals may need multiple ballots to reach a consensus and elect a new Pope.