VATICAN CONCLAVE: Black smoke signals no new pope elected on first day
On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the conclave convened in the Sistine Chapel with 133 cardinals sealed inside, tasked with electing a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away the previous month at the age of 88.
The process began after a formal procession and an oath of secrecy was sworn by each cardinal. The first round of voting commenced around 5:45 PM local time.
As the evening progressed, anticipation built among the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square, which swelled to over 45,000 people. They awaited the signal from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel that would indicate whether a new pope had been elected.
At approximately 9:05 PM, black smoke billowed from the chimney, signaling that no decision had been reached during this initial voting session. This outcome was met with applause from onlookers, reflecting a mix of emotions ranging from disappointment to acceptance that such outcomes are typical in papal elections.
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The conclave will continue into subsequent days until a new pope is chosen.
Historically, conclaves can vary significantly in duration; for instance, one of the fastest conclaves occurred in April 2005 when Pope Benedict XVI was elected within just over 24 hours. However, given the diverse opinions among cardinals regarding the direction of the Catholic Church—some favoring continuity with Pope Francis’s progressive agenda while others seek a return to more traditional practices—the path forward may be complex.
In his homily prior to voting, Cardinal Giovanni Battista re-emphasized the gravity of their responsibility and urged cardinals to be guided by love and unity as they make their choice for leadership during what he described as a “difficult and complex turning point in history.” Discussions leading up to this moment included critical issues such as evangelization efforts, financial management within the Vatican, and addressing clerical sexual abuse.
Despite these serious discussions, one notable topic absent from deliberations was the role of women within the church—a subject that has garnered significant attention under Pope Francis’s tenure but remains contentious among many cardinals. Activists advocating for women’s ordination held protests nearby during this pivotal moment.
As preparations continue for future votes within this conclave setting—where communication with the outside world is strictly prohibited—the eyes of millions remain fixed on Vatican City in hopes of witnessing history unfold once again.
A new pope must poll a two-thirds majority to emerge during the election process. Then, white smoke will be released from the Sistine Chapel chimney.
Earlier on Tuesday, mobile phone signals were shut down to block any form of disruptive surveillance or external interference during the election of the new pope.
