Black Smoke Signals No Pope Selected
Vatican Conclave Begins as Cardinals Gather to Elect New Pope
The Conclave to elect the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church commenced today in the Sistine Chapel, with 133 Cardinals gathering to determine the successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. Unfortunately, the first round of voting did not yield a new pope, as indicated by the black smoke rising from the chapel’s chimney.
A Historic Assembly
Cardinals from around the globe entered the chapel accompanied by solemn Christian hymns, taking an oath to uphold their duties during this crucial process. The Latin phrase "Extra Omnes" marked the official gathering, signaling the exclusion of all non-voting individuals from the chapel.
In total, 133 Cardinals under the age of 80 participated in this influential event. These high-ranking clergymen are the key figures in selecting the next pope to lead a global community of approximately 1.4 billion Catholics.
Voting Procedures
The Conclave will follow a structured voting process, with a total of four votes planned each day—two in the morning and two in the afternoon. The cardinals will continue this process until a new pope is elected. Should a consensus be reached, white smoke will emerge from the chimney, signaling the announcement of the new papal leader.
Staying Focused
During this process, the cardinals will reside at the Santa Marta Guest House within the Vatican, prohibited from using mobile phones, smart watches, or other electronic devices. They are also advised to avoid media sources, ensuring a focused environment conducive to deliberation and prayer.
As this significant chapter in the Catholic Church unfolds, the world watches with anticipation for the emergence of a new spiritual leader.
