On Wednesday afternoon in Vatican City, thick black smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney to signal to thousands of hopeful faithful who had gathered in St. Peter’s Square that the College of Cardinals has not made their decision regarding who will become pope in a secret vote.
A centuries-old symbol of an inconclusive ballot, the dark plume appeared just after midday local time to end hours of speculation among crowds awaiting results of voting day one – ending hours of anticipation as we watched chapel chimneys with anticipation. Unfortunately, however, day one voting has failed to produce two-thirds majority support necessary for choosing a successor to Pope Benedict who resigned citing health reasons.
On Tuesday evening, 115 cardinal electors from around the globe began deliberations behind closed doors at a conclave to select their spiritual leader for over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.
Matteo Bruni, Vatican Spokesman, confirmed shortly after it was seen rising into the sky that there had been no decision reached yet and voting will resume tomorrow, according to Bruni. “Black smoke indicates no decision has been reached. Cardinals will resume voting tomorrow,” he stated.
Tradition dictates that cardinals cast their ballots secretly inside the Sistine Chapel surrounded by Michelangelo’s frescoes in order to cast ballots secretly and securely. Each voting session may include up to four rounds per day–two in the morning and two in the afternoon–and should a pope be elected, white smoke will emanate and bells will sound their confirmation of such an important momentous decision.
St. Peter’s Square remained full of patient optimism despite its failure to produce results, with pilgrims, tourists and clergy from all around the world coming together under umbrellas or blankets to shield against a light Roman drizzle while celebrating this solemn and historic event.
Maria Gonzalez from Mexico City shared that it is an impressive moment to witness, even without yet having a pope to lead us forward in our Christian faith journey. “This shows the process is taking its proper course.”
This papal conclave marks only the second in this century and comes at an important juncture for Catholicism, which faces challenges including internal reform efforts, sexual abuse scandals and decreased attendance across certain regions.
As speculations abound regarding possible presidential frontrunners, the Church maintains its selection process is to be guided by prayer, reflection and divine inspiration rather than political considerations.
Now, the world waits with great hope to witness when black smoke turns to white smoke.